Yahoo News Every word Unai Emery said in press conference after Aston Villa beat Lille on penalties
Unai Emery sat down with the media at the Stade Pierre Mauroy after Aston Villa's penalty shoot-out victory over Lille.
Emi Martinez saved two penalties as Villa won 4-3 on spot-kicks to set up a Europa Conference League semi-final against Olympiacos. Here's every word Emery said in his post-match press conference before Villa jetted back into Birmingham...
How do you sum that up?
"Good evening. We are here, doing our way and taking experiences in Europe. Someone, players even, coaches too, we can help and use our experiences in every match we are playing.
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“Of course, Lille was a difficult match and a team to play when we got them in the draw. They are playing well, they are organised and they were focusing on the two matches without playing in the league.
“When we won 2-1, we spoke before today, talking about how difficult it will be to beat them again. Mentally, we thought about the possibility of playing extra-time and penalties. We did it. Myself, I try to understand each moment, trying to never be frustrated when they were winning.
“We tried to get our moments, playing in our positioning and getting the goal. And we did. In extra-time, both teams were tired and neither side were aggressive in attack. In penalties, it’s about keeping calm and focusing with the players which players were 100 per cent convinced to shoot a penalty. In the end it was fantastic.”
How can you explain the impact of Martinez in this game?
"He is very important for us. He has his personality and his personality in the dressing room is very important because he is a leader with his experiences. He has a really brilliant mentality.
"And then on the pitch he has his personality and he played fantastic. He saved two penalty shots so of course I am very proud of him. I am very proud of all the players."
Did your players think Martinez was going to be sent off?
"Yes. But the rules are like that. Yesterday you [the media] were all asking about me about the reception he will get here in France and you could see it throughout the game.
"He is very experienced and he was trying to control his emotions but the supporters were pushing him. I believe in him and he is mature but with personality. He is always under his own control."
Villa are the only English team left in Europe - how much pride does that give you?
"Of course, we have our priority as well in this Conference League to be a contender and getting a trophy. As well, we are involved in the league to possibly play in the Champions League. It depends if the teams get in front of the German teams. We have to try and get our way, trying to get 100 per cent in our league."
