Unai Emery lauded Aston Villa’s attacking depth, singling out Morgan Rogers for his ‘brilliant’ performance against Leeds United and highlighting key contributions from Ollie Watkins and other forwards.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery singled out attacker Morgan Rogers for high praise following his match-winning brace against Leeds United, a result that propelled Villa into fourth place in the Premier League table.
According to a report from VAVEL International, Rogers, the PFA Young Player of the Year for the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, sealed the 2-1 victory at Elland Road with a brilliant free-kick effort.
The brace meant Rogers has now registered three goals and two assists in his last seven league games, shaking off a slow start to the season.
Emery was effusive in his praise for the young player’s performance. “Today was brilliant, Morgan Rogers, and he is playing fantastic, even when he’s not getting his numbers, like today,” Emery said, acknowledging the player’s contribution beyond just scoring.
“Scoring goals, of course, is more brilliant, and for the supporters or for everybody, is more relevant, his work, but always, he’s doing his task.”
The Spanish coach also used the opportunity to praise the work ethic of his leading striker, stating: “And, I can say the work he did today, Ollie Watkins, was fantastic.”
Emery concluded by expressing satisfaction with the growing strength in his attacking options, mentioning players like Emiliano Buendia, Jadon Sancho, and substitute Donyell Malen, adding:
“We need individual performance. We must get our structure stronger, collectively, tactically, be disciplined and organised, but individually, we need how they can feel comfortable, confident, play with their skills.”