Villa ´contenders but not favourites´ to win FA Cup, says Emery

Unai Emery insists Aston Villa are “contenders but not favourites” to win this season’s FA Cup, after sealing their place in the quarter-finals.

Villa progressed to the last eight in the competition for the first time in 10 years, with Marco Asensio scoring a brace in a 2-0 victory over Cardiff City.

Emery’s side will be one of at least five Premier League teams in the quarter-final draw, as they seek their first silverware since winning the 1995-96 EFL Cup.

But with the likes of Manchester City, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, the Spaniard is adamant his side are not favourites to lift the trophy.

“The players performed fantastic [against Cardiff],” he said. “At home, with our football, we are comfortable. We respected the opponent.

“Playing against a Championship team, [we try] to respect them because you can lose a match, even if you’re better than the opponent.

“We are in [a] quarter-final, we are happy. We know the difficulties we are going to face, but enjoy each moment. We are here performing very well at home.

“The cup is very important for the club, for the supporters, for ourselves – but as well, it is a way for a trophy. We are not considered favourites to win this trophy. We are contenders, but not favourites.”

Asensio has now scored four goals in his last three appearances for Villa in all competitions, with no Premier League player scoring more since his debut on February 9.

Meanwhile, fellow loanee Marcus Rashford has created more chances in all competitions than any other Premier League player (13) during that same span.

With Villa also battling for the Premier League’s European spots and gearing up for a Champions League last-16 tie with Club Brugge, Emery says his entire squad must play their part during the busy schedule.

“It’s important for the team, it’s important as well for the players individually to get their individual target as well,” he added.

“He’s [Marco Asensio] adapting fantastically, as well [Marcus] Rashford. We will need them for the next matches and the challenges we have.

“We need the players who joined in the last window. We need the players coming back from injury. Every player will be necessary for the matches in the next weeks and months.”