Unai Emery wants more from Nicolas Jackson ahead of Fulham clash

Unai Emery has challenged Nicolas Jackson to maintain his recent form and keep improving as Aston Villa prepare to face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday.

Nicolas Jackson has made an impressive start to life at Villa Park, scoring seven goals since joining from Chelsea. However, Unai Emery believes the striker still has plenty to improve and wants to see him with greater consistency.

The Villa manager also provided updates on Jackson, Johan Manzambi and Leon Goretzka during his pre-match press conference.

Unai Emery outlines what Jackson needs to improve

Asked what the Senegal international needs to do to take his game to another level, Unai Emery stressed consistency and maintaining high standards.

“Time. Time and consistency. High demands of himself in his everyday tasks. I am happy with him but I also know he has a lot to do as well to try to get better and be more consistent,” Emery said ahead of the Fulham clash.

Jackson and Manzambi were both absent from the starting lineup during Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat against Bournemouth, raising questions about their availability for the weekend. However, Emery suggested both players should be ready to feature against Fulham, explaining that their absence was not simply down to giving them a rest.

“For different reasons, not only rest. We are going to train and normally, yes [they will be fine to play on Saturday].”

Emery discusses Leon Goretzka’s role

The Villa boss was also asked about Leon Goretzka’s best position following his recent return.

Unai Emery believes the midfielder first needs to settle into the team and understand the demands of his system, while the coaching staff will also look to adapt to his qualities.

“The first one is to be available to play. He started being available two weeks ago. He needs to understand our idea, and we are adapting to him too because his quality is clear.”

Aston Villa will be looking to get back to winning ways against Fulham after their midweek cup disappointment. Meanwhile, Unai Emery will also hope Nicolas Jackson can continue his recent scoring form as his side look to collect another important three points in the Premier League after an impressive 2-1 win over Manchester City in the last gameweek.