Emery proud of Luton victory

Unai Emery was proud of Aston Villa after they overcame Luton Town 3-2 at Kenilworth Road on Saturday.

Three more Premier League points were hard-earned, with the team coming through a game of two very different halves.

An Ollie Watkins brace had put Villa in control at half-time, but Luton hit back and levelled before Lucas Digne popped up with a late winner.

“I’m very happy and very proud of our players, our club and our supporters who were here with us, supporting us and trying to push us,” Emery said.

“The first half was fantastic and we really deserved two goals like we did and we created chances to get more. We didn’t concede a lot of chances to get into our box.

“The second half was completely different, but we were aware of the possibility to struggle more in the second half like we did because they usually push a lot here, even when they are losing two or three nil.

“They are always pushing until the last minute here, and they did it. We didn’t control the game with ball possession like the first half and we were playing more long balls and not close to getting the second action.”

He added: “We continued working to react quick, and we did it. The players we introduced onto the pitch had a fantastic impact, fresh players trying to help the team.

“Moussa got the assist for Lucas and they really helped the team with the spirit like I want.”

Villa’s head coach was particularly pleased with his team’s mentality as they picked up a third consecutive away win in the top flight.

Emery said: “We are always trying in the Premier League, the most difficult league in the world, to build a strong mentality and structure in your style.

“We have to be competitive like we are. You need to always think about how you can win and increase our level, individually and collectively.

“The players are in this commitment with the club. I’m very proud of this victory.”