Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins(Image: Offside via Getty Images)
Unai Emery has attributed Aston Villa’s goalscoring woes to tactical issues rather than individual performances.
Following a 0-0 draw with Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Villa have now failed to score in their opening four league games of the season - the first time in the club’s history this has occurred.
They also become just the fifth team to do so in the Premier League era, following Sheffield Wednesday (1993–94), Newcastle United (2005–06), Swansea City (2011–12), and Crystal Palace (2017–18).
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Emery was asked about his side’s lack of goals, the reasons behind it, and whether he’s concerned about the trend.
“It is something we have to address tactically,” he said. “It’s not just about the striker, winger, or defensive midfielder. We have to improve the system to help our attacking players get into better positions to score.
“We can build confidence from today’s draw, and hopefully from a win in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday. I understand the situation we’re in, and we’re still adapting with new players coming in.
“I accept the point. I’m happy. I could be a little bit worried, but confident about the future.”
Ollie Watkins cut a lonely figure throughout the match, but Emery refused to blame his striker for the team’s lack of goals, insisting he should remain calm.
“We have to support him, and every player must feel comfortable,” Emery continued. “There are good and bad moments. Players go through dips in confidence and performance, but we need to find the right balance. It’s important to stay consistent - whether we’re winning or not.
“For Ollie Watkins - calm. Keep working. We’re not scoring, and the striker becomes the focus. But I’m not especially worried about him. We will score again, and he will score again.”
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