Emery: It is difficult to accept Aston Villa’s 4-4 draw with Manchester United

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery admitted it was difficult to accept a 4-4 draw against Manchester United on Sunday, after his team led 4-2 until stoppage time at Old Trafford. He said the two late goals his side conceded were painful, despite being pleased with aspects of the performance.

Emery explained that Aston Villa started both halves well and scored twice in each, but noted that Manchester United pressed and created chances in the first half. He added that his team managed to control the match better in the second half, but felt that conceding two goals in the final six minutes was something that needed to be corrected quickly.

According to Emery, Aston Villa had recorded three wins and three draws in their last six league matches, with their level of performance improving, but missed the chance to add two points against United. The team are due to have a two-week break during the international period, and the manager said he hoped the players would return strongly after their rest and their involvement with their national teams.