We want to put things right – Cash

Matty Cash has spoken of the desire to “put things right” after Sunday’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur as Ajax arrive at Villa Park for Thursday’s UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16 second leg.

Villa followed up last week’s goalless draw in the first leg in Amsterdam with a disappointing 4-0 reverse to Spurs in the Premier League on Sunday.

And Cash believes Thursday provides “the perfect time to bounce back” as the Villans look to secure their spot in the quarter-finals of the competition.

Asked whether defeat to Spurs has provided extra motivation heading into the Ajax tie, the right-back said: “It’s a big motivation.

“I think, for us personally, we want to put things right.

“The first game away at Ajax was a tough game and on the back of a tough defeat at the weekend as well, Thursday is the perfect time to bounce back.

“We’ve said in there (the training ground), it’s good to have a lot of games quick and fast so we can bounce back when we lose.”

Cash added: “We’re in a fantastic position and we’ve done well, credit to everyone at the club – supporters, players, staff.

“To get ourselves in this position is fantastic.

“Obviously, we’re disappointed from the weekend but we’ve got a lot of games and a massive game on Thursday that can be very important for us.

“We’re in a fantastic position so we can’t get too low, we’ve got to think of the next game and be positive.”

Unai Emery’s side won all three group stage matches at Villa Park en route to the round of 16, triumphing over HŠK Zrinjski, AZ Alkmaar and Legia Warszawa.

Thursday represents the first time European knockout football will be hosted in B6 since 2008/09.

It’s also the same season Villa defeated Ajax 2-1 in the UEFA Cup group stage – their only previous meeting on these shores.

And Cash is looking forward to Thursday night under the lights.

“I think every European game at Villa Park has been special,” he said.

“Thursday is another special one, so I’m sure the Villa fans will be ready for it and it will be a great atmosphere.

“They (the fans) are massive for us at home, playing at home is a big advantage for us.

“So, hopefully Thursday will be another great atmosphere.”