Aston Villa Round-Up, Monday 19th October: Emery Praises Alysson's Progress as Viking FK Clash Looms
Tyrone Mings has spoken positively about the "freshness" within Aston Villa's squad following the summer's transfer overhaul, saying he is keen to see how the new-look team continues to develop under Unai Emery (Birmingham Live).
There was plenty of focus on youngster Alysson after his first start since his £10million move from Gremio in Saturday's win over Newcastle. Emery said he is staying patient as he looks to unlock the winger's "power" (Express & Star), and separately summed up the Brazilian's impact in a single word, adding that Alysson has put a number of early "problems" behind him (Birmingham Live). Emery also opened up on his plans for Joao Gomes, explaining that he wants the midfielder to reach "another level" as he settles into the side following Youri Tielemans' departure (Birmingham Live).
Attention is already turning to Wednesday's Champions League visit of Viking FK. Birmingham Live's injury update suggests Villa could be missing several players for the game, with Manzambi, Maatsen and Hemmings all mentioned amid the fitness concerns (Birmingham Live). A separate preview piece predicts Mbaye could start, with Emery facing a selection dilemma over the left-back position (Birmingham Live). Sports Mole have also previewed the fixture, running through potential lineups and a prediction for the European clash (Sports Mole).
On the transfer front, Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has confirmed the truth behind Villa's blocked summer move for former Brighton left-back Pervis Estupinan, according to Birmingham Live (Birmingham Live).
Elsewhere, Alan Shearer was scathing in his assessment of Newcastle's performance against Villa at the weekend, branding the Magpies "weak" and "terrible" (GiveMeSport). Manchester City, who face Villa soon, have had their own injury worries, with Enzo Maresca issuing an update ahead of matches against AEK Athens and Villa, with Erling Haaland's situation potentially adding to City's problems (Birmingham Live).
Away from team news, former Villa striker Ollie Watkins' wife Ellie has shared emotional social media posts about "holding babies close" amid strikes in Saudi Arabia (Birmingham Live).
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