'Skills and intelligence' - Aston Villa manager Unai Emery hails Johan Manzambi following decisive goal against Newcastle

Manzambi proved to be the difference-maker as Aston Villa clinched a 1-0 win against Newcastle at St. James' Park. Following an end-to-end start to the match, João Gomes delivered a precise cross in the 36th minute, allowing Manzambi to nod the ball past goalkeeper Lukás Hornícek.

The visitors had to survive late pressure from Matthias Jaissle's side, with Zion Suzuki producing a brilliant save to deny Sven Botman. Aston Villa held on to their advantage, ensuring they claimed all three points to move up to 12th in the table.

Speaking after the match, Emery was quick to highlight the overall contribution of his match-winner. Expressing satisfaction with the midfielder's integration, he added: "Skills and intelligence, both he has, and his physicality is very important as well to help us defensively and to help us try to keep the duels offensively. So happy. Of course another goal he has scored. Fantastic for him as well." The decisive header takes his tally to two Premier League goals this season.

Emery also lauded how seamlessly the player has adjusted to the tactical demands at Aston Villa since his arrival. "He has been a very good impact with his qualities and his wish to join us in the same challenges and performances in the last three or four years playing as well consistency in the Premier League in the top positions as well in Europe," the manager noted.

However, there was a slight concern when Manzambi was substituted with less than 20 minutes remaining. "I don’t know, then he was a bit tired and maybe something muscular, hopefully not much," Emery added.

Aston Villa and Newcastle now both sit on eight points in the Premier League standings. Emery and his squad will quickly turn their attention to European competition, as they prepare to face Norwegian side Viking FK in the Champions League. Following that European fixture, they return to domestic action for a challenging clash against Manchester City.