Unai Emery hails Lindelof’s midfield switch as Villa reach Europa League final | OneFootball

Unai Emery hailed Victor Lindelof after the Swede excelled in midfield to help Aston Villa reach the Europa League final. According to ExpressAndStar.com, the head coach praised the defender's display.

The Sweden international impressed in Thursday’s 4-0 semi-final second leg win over Nottingham Forest after a surprise move into midfield with Amadou Onana injured.

A career centre-half, Lindelof had made only two brief substitute outings in midfield for Villa earlier this season. The 31-year-old signed as a free agent last September after eight years at Manchester United.

Emery said absences were key, with Boubacar Kamara and Onana sidelined, and he wanted experience and set-piece strength. John McGinn has also featured centrally, and while Lamare Bogarde is versatile, he opted for Lindelof.

Villa face Freiburg in the final on May 20 as they chase a first major trophy in 30 years. Emery urged balance, describing the tie as 50-50 and highlighting the quality and competitiveness of German teams.

With three Premier League matches to play, Villa could clinch a top-five finish and Champions League football by beating Burnley on Sunday. Emery added the squad can feel proud but should enjoy the journey.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com