After a terrible start to the season, Villa have bounced back to third in the league, just 6 points away from league leaders Arsenal. The win over Brighton in midweek was the club’s sixth win in a row across all tournaments, as well as their fourth on the bounce in the league in what is a remarkable run.
Can Villa catch Arsenal?
Emery was first asked about the club’s position in the table and on the chance to cut the gap to Premier League leaders Arsenal to just three points with victory on Saturday.
"We are very happy how we are progressing, how we are competing, how we are on points. We now really have a huge opportunity for tomorrow. Arsenal are the best team until now and of course the favourites to win this trophy in the Premier League because they are competing fantastically and playing fantastic.
"Tomorrow is really a huge test - collectively and individually. For me as a coach as well. I am delighted to have this opportunity to play tomorrow against Arsenal, with the level they have and with the level we have achieved over the last month."
Martinez is a doubt
Emiliano Martinez was a late withdrawal from the squad to face Brighton with a back injury and Villa’s high spirits have been crushed slightly by the news that the goalkeeper is unlikely to face his former side this weekend.
"We train this afternoon and he didn't train yesterday. It's very important for him how these passing hours if he is feeling better. Until the last moment, I don't know if he is going to be available or not for tomorrow."
Are players pushed too far?
Finally, just as Martinez picks up a potential knock, Emery was asked about the quick turnaround for teams playing European football and the strain such an intense football calander places on top players who rarely take a break.
"The most important part of football is the players. The players must feel comfortable, feel confident to play with their form and with their focus on the game plan we have for tomorrow, because the game plan is very important.
"At the end, football is for the players. On the field is the players - with their skills, their wishes, with their emotions, with their focus for 90 minutes.
"The preparation for tomorrow on Thursday was to rest. They will feel tired and not recovered 100% for tomorrow, but we have hours until tomorrow at 12:30 to recover and rest and to prepare the game plan."