Aston Villa face Manchester City on Sunday looking to bounce back from their surprise midweek defeat to Go Ahead Eagles and with Unai Emery making his demands very clear to his team on what he wants t

Aston Villa could not escape the colours red and yellow. They were everywhere. Go Ahead Eagles flags on shops, pubs, restaurants, walls and houses across the city. Red and yellow luminous lights brightened subways and tunnels, while flares of the same shades were thrown into the streets of the city centre.

Ian: A poor display. Villa should have been three goals up in the first half but the usual lack of firepower up front cost us. Emery needs to tell Watkins that he can run onto a ball, rather than expecting it to his feet all the time. A real disappointment after the recent improvement in form.

Aston Villa continue to move quietly but with intent in the transfer market. They are building a squad that will show both ambition and balance. Under Unai Emery, the Birmingham club shows a growing

Aston Villa are closing in on a full agreement with one of their most important players, who was targeted by Everton over the summer transfer window.

The 23-year-old is part of the BlueCo group and is being lined up by Enzo Maresca's side for a move to Stamford Bridge. However, Aston Villa fancy their chances of hijacking that deal, and also beating Brighton, who are also interested in signing the player, to a deal.

Nottingham Forest hosts Porto in the Europa League later on Thursday, just two days after Sean Dyche became the club’s third manager of the season. Struggling Forest is hoping for its first win in the competition.

Pep Guardiola is preparing his Manchester City side for what he believes is one of their toughest away assignments of the season at Aston Villa. City face Unai Emery’s team at Villa Park on Sunday hoping to extend their run of nine games unbeaten in all competitions.