Tyrone Mings has received Unai Emery’s backing to help Aston Villa build from defence while Pau Torres is unavailable.
Ahead of the Tottenham trip, Emery acknowledged the qualities Torres brings in possession. However, he stressed that Villa’s structure must continue to function when important players are missing.
Speaking in comments reported by Birmingham Live, Emery backed Mings to accept responsibility.
“Pau has some characteristics as a player that give us so, so much in build-up, but Tyrone is doing it as well,” he said.
“He can take the responsibility to do it in the way that we want.”
Tyrone Mings has Emery’s trust in possession
The manager’s assessment gives Mings a clear task. Villa still need their defenders to help move possession into midfield, even without Torres.
Emery also pointed out that his team have previously performed without either centre-back.
“The structure is the most important thing,” he said.
That places responsibility across the side. Mings needs passing options from teammates, rather than carrying the entire burden of progressing the ball himself.
Our earlier assessment of Torres’ absence and Villa’s build-up examined the challenge. Emery’s comments now offer a direct response: he expects the available players to maintain his approach.
Villa’s defensive structure remains the priority
For Saturday’s game, our view is that the distances between defence and midfield will be particularly important.
If Villa’s midfielders move too far ahead of the ball, their centre-backs could find themselves short of passing options. Supporting Mings means making those options available before pressure arrives.
Emery’s backing does not confirm his starting partnership against Tottenham. It does make clear that he trusts Mings to contribute in possession.
The manager accepts that Torres brings distinctive qualities. His expectation is that Villa can continue competing effectively while adapting to his absence.
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