‘We knew’ - Danny Ings makes blunt Aston Villa admission after scoring in Everton win

Danny Ings has issued an honest verdict of Aston Villa’s opening day defeat after helping his side get off the mark.

Villa put in a disappointing performance in their season opener against newly promoted Bournemouth last weekend, but they have since put things right.

Steven Gerrard’s men defeated Everton on Saturday to kick-start their season, winning their first home outing.

Ings scored a superb opener before Emi Buendia netted a second, putting Villa just out of reach for the Toffees, who had some good chances after Lucas Digne scored an own goal.

Speaking atfer the win over Everton, Ings spoke about the importance of bouncing back after such a disappointing performance last weekend.

“All of us wanted a reaction after last week - it simply wasn’t good enough. We knew that,” he told BT Sport.

“From start to finish, we didn’t lay a glove on Bournemouth. So, to come in today, at home, is huge, and hopefully, we can build on that now.”

Speaking more specifically about the win over Everton, Ings added: “It was difficult. After last week’s performance, there were going to be edgy moments. Everton are a physical side and they caused us some problems.

“That’s how you stick it out, that’s how you grind it out and win ugly, at times,

“But during the game, we created good moments and I thought we deserved the win.

“They are a physical team and they got the ball forward and put a lot of pressure on us. Credit to the boys at the back for digging in and staying strong. That’s what this league is all about.”

Ings’ goal is one worth catching, with the striker appearing to lose control for a second before adapting his body and scoring with a rasping effort.

“I was running full tilt when it was cut back,” he said. “ Luckily, I managed to get half a yard and put it in the back of the net. I’m really happy.”