Unai Emery admits Aston Villa’s exploits in midweek meant his side lacked ‘energy’ during their goalless draw with Manchester United.
The two teams played out a forgettable stalemate at Villa Park on Sunday, a performance and atmosphere in contrast to the 1-0 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League this week.
Villa suffered a setback when Ezri Konsa was forced off early on and failed to create clear-cut chances, with Jaden Philogene coming closest when his late effort deflected off Diogo Dalot for a corner.
The point leaves Emery’s side fifth in the table, outside the Champions League places on goal difference. The Spaniard said the international break is well-timed for his team amid several absences and a lack of energy on the pitch.
“It’s not a bad result, playing at home here, but it’s not the best. How we played, I think the draw is fair for both teams. Maybe in the second half we controlled more than them, but also they hit the crossbar,” Emery reflected to Sky Sports.
“We missed some energy, but I am happy because the draw was not the worst result, and in the second half we corrected some things to control the match.
“Maybe it’s because we have some players injured. Bailey is getting better but he’s not completely fit. Some other players are also getting better. This is the idea we have.
“Of course to play in the Champions League this week. We tried to play with the same energy and tried to impose ourselves, but we are against Manchester United. The expectation I had of the match is what more or less happened.
Emery says Manchester United draw a ‘fair’ result
“We deserved more from the second half. But I think the result is fair.
“We are in the process of building a team. Ross Barkley played 90 minutes for us. We are managing things better. I am happy. We could be better in the table but we are more or less in the top six but I am happy with what we are doing.
“The international break will be good for rest.”
