Unai Emery is the most methodical of managers - the return to fitness of Kamara has come at a good time for Aston Villa

Villa manager Emery knows his side must tighten up to remain competitive with the top clubs in the division and explained that a clean sheet is the first step to winning. Without a victory in over a month, Villa face Chelsea on Sunday and Emery was asked why his side's defensive record in Europe is so much better than in the league.

Aston Villa have gone seven games without a win following the goalless draw to Juventus, which is the longest run since Unai Emery took over in November 2022; injury problems, a lack of balance and defensive woes are all issues;

Unai Emery admits Villa’s seven-match winless run has left him battling to keep his frustration in check. The boss says keeping a lid on his emotions is his toughest challenge as he looks to pull his team out of a slump which began with conceding a late equaliser to Bournemouth last month.

Aston Villa return to Premier League action on Sunday when they face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, with Unai Emery demanding that his players remain focused