****Ezri Konsa****commented on leading out Aston Villa against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Europe.
The Villans found their form through the Europa League, beating **Bologna**1-0 and **Feyenoord**2-0 at **De Kuip**to kick off a five game winning streak in all competitions. The team have also defeated **Man City**1-0 and fought competitively against reigning Premier League champions **Liverpool**in a 2-0 loss at Anfield. The frustrations from the beginning of the campaign continue to be left in the past.
Villa had sacrificed the advantage in Dentver against GoAhead Eagles**** to lose their 100% record in the continental competition last week, so the focus was on a return to winning ways at Villa Park on Thursday. Thanks to an injury time strike from **Ian Maatsen**and a penalty from Donyell Malen, the hosts got the better of their Israeli opponents and remain in the hunt for a top eight spot in the table.
It was a proud evening for Konsa, who wore the armband as club captain John McGinn sat on the bench before coming onto the field in the second half. The central defender has been a faithful servant for the team since he moved to the Midlands from **Brentford**in 2019, and he looked back with happiness at being given the responsibility of leading out the players in front of the home faithful.
“It was clear that we needed to win here, especially with the table how it’s going. We knew three points would get us back up there.
“Disappointing result last time out, but we made it right here and got the three points.”
*“It’s always nice to lead the team out. It’s a role that I’ve always wanted to do. We’ve got a great captain in John McGinn, but when he’s not on the pitch, I’ve got to take responsibility.*
“And I’m enjoying it, so hopefully I get many more.”