Unai Emery has called on fans to be the 12th man in Aston Villa’s upcoming Premier League home tie vs Man United
The West Midlands side return to Villa Park once again on Sunday as they aim to take all three points from the Red Devils.
Emery’s side has been sensational so far this season with some pundits believing that they are in a title race. However, recently their form has taken a dip.
Aston Villa’s 15-game winning run at home came to an abrupt end in December with a poor 1-1 draw against Sheffield United. Now, over the past couple of weeks, Villa Park has witnessed back-to-back defeats, one of which saw them crash out of the FA Cup.
However, expectations remain high, with many still predicting Villa to take all three points against Man United on the weekend. Emery also believes that this is doable, but has called upon fans to do their bit in Sunday’s fixture.
Unai Emery calls for fans to be the ‘12th man’
After a sensational run at home, fans are now experiencing a dip in form at Villa Park, something many haven’t seen in a long time.
Man United will no doubt be a tough test in what could be a vital game for Villa come the end of the season.
Emery recognises this and with both teams needing a win to match their ambitions, he has called upon the fans to help be the difference makers.
He told Aston Villa: “It’s a new challenge for us, it’s a new challenge for our supporters and it’s a new challenge in Villa Park to feel strong like we were.
“This is a challenge. We have to be together, we have to use our positive energy – everybody. Each individual fan has to support us with their energy.
“We’re going to try to connect with them, playing being demanding, being successful and trying to get our performance on the pitch. Even like that, it’s going to be a very, very difficult match because they will need to get points and close the difference to us in the table.
“When we’re facing matches like this – of course we have to be consistent in 38 matches – but it’s six points (the gap) and a key match.
“We have to try to create a great atmosphere with our supporters.”
Aston Villa vs Man United could be vital in Champions League race
While many still see Villa as potential title contenders, qualifying for the Champions League should certainy be a priority to Emery’s side.
The club have put themselves into a great position to do this as they enter the second half of the year. However, Villa need to quickly put their poor home form behind them.
With Man United only six points behind the West Midlands side, a victory would give the club more breathing room between themselves and sixth place.
If the fans can give the hosts that edge in order to achieve this then all the better for it.
