Villa returned to their Tennessee base following a 2-1 win over St. Louis City on Wednesday – their first win of the summer. Prior to that, Emery’s men had suffered defeats to Walsall and Hansa Rostock before drawing 2-2 with Eintracht Frankfurt in Louisville.
All four goals so far on tour have come from Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers, with Donyell Malen assisting three. Matty Cash set up Watkins for Villa’s second goal at Energizer Park.
Emery focused on testing full squad
While results are secondary at this stage, Villa looked in control throughout Wednesday’s match, with Cedric Teuchert’s goal for St. Louis following what appeared to be a foul on Boubacar Kamara.
Wednesday also marked Emi Martinez and John McGinn’s first pre-season minutes. McGinn stood out, earning man of the match, even as Emery made wholesale changes at half-time.
Emi Buendia played close to an hour before being replaced by Travis Patterson. With limited time left before the season begins, the pressure is on Buendia to prove his worth.
After the win, Emery reflected on the performance and outlined his ongoing approach to player rotation, even with the knowledge that some players may not be part of his final squad.
“We’re pleased to be in the U.S. for pre-season and to play a side like St. Louis City,” Emery said. “Matches like these are always useful. It’s not about the result – it’s about sharing minutes and working on our tactics.”
He added: “We aimed for each player to get 45 minutes. The goal is fitness, tactical work, and understanding the opposition’s style, which changed from the first half to the second.
“In the second half they pressed higher, and we struggled with our build-up. But these are the kinds of situations we need to learn from. We’re still experimenting, including with players who might not be in the final squad.”
Young talents continue to impress
Emery’s comments suggest that Villa’s younger players are benefitting from valuable exposure during the tour.
Jamal Jimoh-Aloba, Triston Rowe, and Travis Patterson have all impressed when called upon.
Rowe, who started against St. Louis, partnered Ezri Konsa on the right side of defence and looked composed and confident. Clubs in the EFL are already monitoring him for a potential loan move.
Jimoh-Aloba, who played a key role in Villa’s FA Youth Cup triumph, turns 19 in October and could also head out on loan.
Patterson, who spent time with MK Dons last season, came on against St. Louis and continues to build on his development.
Notably, Yasin Ozcan, who had featured in all three previous friendlies, was not included in the latest squad.
