Aston Villa news from BirminghamLive as head coach insists his side have plenty of room for improvement despite climbing to second in the Premier League

After Aston Villa’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Burnley at Villa Park, Unai Emery says his team still has a lot of work ahead of them to fulfill their potential this season.

Burnley twice overcame a late deficit to tie the game before Douglas Luiz’s penalty kick in the 87th minute gave Villa their 13th Premier League victory of the season. Zeki Andouni pulled one back after Leon Bailey had given Villa the lead midway through the first half, but Moussa Diaby’s first goal in ten games made sure the home team had the advantage at the break.

Before the hour, Burnley midfielder Sander Berge was sent off for a second bookable offense. However, Lyle Foster

scored his team’s second goal in front of the Holte End after Villa missed multiple

opportunities to score a third. Late in the game, Jhon Duran entered the game and

gained a penalty kick, which Luiz converted to complete the victory.

It was a club record for Villa to win the Premier League for the 26th time this

year. Emery was asked what the team could accomplish the next year after the victory.

“We have to understand the realities we have with players,” he responded. “We can put in a lot of effort to realize our goals and aspirations.

“The instructions when I first came here were to improve, improve, and compete

in Europe as one of the top seven players. There are other clubs ahead of

us in the Premier League, thus we are not a contender for the top seven or top

four spots. However, there might be a chance for us to obtain it.

“I’m attempting to be upbeat, although less so in the wake of Sheffield’s draw. Less after the Manchester United defeat. We won today, so I’m feeling more [positive]. I’m making an effort to give it my all in every game we play. After a little rest, we’ll concentrate on the games against Middlesborough and Everton.

“Getting better and improving is the constant goal. It was an amazing day. Our goal is to savor the times spent with the players. With 42 points now, we can relax and feel content, but the work will still be quite challenging. How do we want to advance next year? I’m going to oversee our advancement.”

When asked what his goals were for 2024, Emery responded, “Of course, Newcastle is the next game we play at home. My plan and my focus are clear in my thoughts. My goal is to attempt to score 45 points against Everton.”