Losing 3-0 at home to Crystal Palace was Villa’s heaviest home defeat for 18 months. What is even worse is that Emery’s side remain the only team in the Premier League yet to score a goal as they continue their search against Everton.
Elliott ready to start
Emery was first asked about summer signings Harvey Elliott, Jadon Sancho and Victor Lindelöf who he says could feature this weekend.
“They are in the squad. They were working with us last week and this week. Different circumstances for each one – for example, Jadon Sancho was not training with the group, and physically he will need time.
“But he is training normally and he is in the squad for tomorrow. Harvey Elliott was playing and training consistently with Liverpool – he’s more or less fit.
“Lindelöf was training individually as well. He started with us two weeks ago and now he’s available to be with us. He will need time to know our structure tactically and how we want to play.”
Martinez staying at Villa is a huge positive
He also opened up on goalkeeper Emi Martinez who waved goodbye to supporters last season before failing to make a move away this summer despite links to Manchester United.
“Staying here, Emiliano Martínez, for me, it’s good news for us. I’m so, so happy. For me, he’s the best goalkeeper in the world. We have the best goalkeeper in the world.
“His commitment to Aston Villa is always a massive, huge commitment to do everything, trying to send a good message inside and outside. He’s always training to get his best, always respecting Aston Villa, and that’s not changing.
“Some circumstances happen in football, but now everybody in the squad is happy. Today the energy was a very good energy in the training session. Emiliano is happy again.
“Now, he knows his challenge is with Aston Villa and his national team. He has a lot of challenges this year.”
Everton are a formidable opponent
Finally, he spoke on this weekend’s opponents Everton who are in fine form at the moment under manager David Moyes who has led his side to wins against Wolves and Brighton.
“They won the last two matches, playing fantastic. They won last time away at Wolverhampton playing fantastic.
“I watched those matches, analysed those matches, and they’re playing good football. They have experienced players. It’s a club with a new stadium and they’re excited, the supporters, the players and the club.
“It’s the Premier League and I want to play matches like this. To play in Everton with the new stadium, for me, individually as a coach, it’s a privilege to be there.”