Former Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker says Unai Emery’s side have to be considered as being in the title race now they are showing their grit and determination to keep winning.
Villa are two points off leaders Arsenal and a point behind second-place Manchester City, with a five-point cushion on Chelsea in fourth.
“When you watch how Unai Emery has coached this team and with the players they have available, they can beat anyone in the Premier League on any day,” said Reo-Coker on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily podcast.
“That is the beauty of what they are. But can they continue to be consistent? Well, the fact they went a goal down against West Ham twice and came back makes a statement.
“They are doing well in Europe as well, but Emery keeps saying it is one game at a time and I think that is the right message for the players in the dressing room.
“Deep down, though, I bet he is loving every single minute of this because he has built something that is really amazing and is competing in the Premier League title race.
“I don’t think it was an ambition of theirs for this season but they have shown how they can perform in every aspect so far.
“They also now have a pretty healthy and fit squad, so I do think they should be trying to win the Europa League as well.
“Emery has done so much for Villa so it would be great for everyone to say he has taken them to another level with a trophy.”
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