Aston Villa host Ajax at Villa Park this evening looking to qualify for the last eight of the UEFA Conference League.
Both teams have their injury issues to contend with ahead of the fixture. Unai Emery has confirmed Jacob Ramsey will miss Thursday night’s match. The midfielder was forced off against Luton Town and hasn’t featured since.
Ajax are also contending with a couple of issues. John van’t Schip’ is without Steven Bergwijn and is sweating on the fitness of Steven Berghuis. The 32-year-old missed the weekend draw with Fortuna Stittard.
The Conference League presents Villa with a realistic chance of silverware, and Gabby Agbonlahor has been speaking ahead of the second leg.
Gabby Agbonlahor makes Aston Villa v Ajax prediction
Talking live on talkSPORT Breakfast (09:50 am) on Thursday morning, the former Villa striker insisted he would rather win a trophy than finish in the top four.
“Top four or win the Europa Conference League? I’d rather win a trophy, to be honest. Unai Emery, his record in Europe – four Europa Leagues – I think he’ll get us over the line tonight,” he said.
He added: “Aston Villa are meant to be in Europe. Aston Villa are meant to win big trophies. They have got a great manager in Unai Emery; he knows what he’s doing in Europe, and I’m sure Aston Villa will get the job done tonight.”
Silverware of the top four?
It’s certainly an interesting debate.
Champions League qualification could allow Villa to step up and consistently become one of the Premier League’s top six clubs. But how often does the chance to win a European trophy emerge?
As seen with West Ham United last season, the Conference League can provide players, fans and staff with memories that last a lifetime.
Supporting a football team ultimately boils down to winning, and Villa’s European aspirations this season should be a priority. Furthermore, with the potential for further Premier League qualification spots, a top-five finish could be enough for Emery’s side.
