Shifting the focus to Newcastle takes priority for Unai Emery | OneFootball

The Aston Villa boss has been consistent in his messaging. For him, qualifying for Champions League next season is the most important task of the club at the moment. This can only happen with a strong end to the Premier League campaign. A lot can happen in the closing weeks of April and May.

While the win at Villa Park was thrilling for the players and a proud moment for the club, the Spaniard made sure to tell reporters of his continued emphasis. It can be a difficult task at times to get back up after a quick turnaround when coming off a highly emotionally charged match. This becomes even more true after playing a good side with the quality of PSG.

For Emery, the need to put the recent past behind is important in that aspect. Naturally, a game like what fans witness in the second leg of the Champions League is one that people will talk about for a long time. It was, after all, an incredible display on the pitch and from those in attendance, who provided the top-level atmosphere.

If, however, the club is to achieve its goals, those wearing the claret and blue will need to be able to find ways to quickly recharge and motivate themselves again, as they will hope to be competing in a number of competitions on an annual basis at Villa.

The reward for having played an exceptional game against PSG is to now face an equally dangerous side in Newcastle. Coming off a strong showing in their own right, the Magpies will look to increase their Premier League standings with a win at the fortress.

Important EPL challenge ahead

This Saturday is an important test for Emery's men. With the backing of Villa Park, they'll need to show this currently in-form EPL opponent that they too can impress and put on a good showing. Having this pressure and needing to play well over and over again is a blessing. The best embrace the challenge, while others fear what happens if (fill in the blank).

Between the starting XI quality and AVFC depth, inspired by the crowd of Villans, on Saturday, the hosts need to prove that they too are a dangerous side and can defeat good competition on a consistent basis. It doesn't matter if the opposition on the day is coming off a 5-0 victory.