‘Villa’s twice as nice glory aim’

EZRI KONSA believes that Aston Villa’s dream double is on.

As Unai Emery’s men prepared for their ‘big’ tie against Ajax tonight, the centre-half said winning the Europa Conference League and qualifying for the Champions League is a realistic target.

Villa have travelled to Amsterdam as favourites and, with a crunch clash against Spurs on Sunday, this week will be pivotal.

Konsa (above, battling against Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo) said: “We know this is an opportunity to win a trophy and, from the beginning of the season or even since the boss joined, that is what he wanted to do.

“He wants to win a trophy with us, the mentality he has implemented has really paid off and we are showing it.

“We’ve had a lot of setbacks in our squad but it has not ruined our form or position in the league.

“No matter who is playing, everyone knows their roles so they are confident when they do get the chance.”

Konsa added: “Ajax’s history in European football speaks for itself.

“These are the kinds of teams we want to play against, these are the kinds of teams we want to test ourselves against.

“Everyone is excited to play against such an historic club.

“They still have a lot of top players – Jordan Henderson is one of them – so we have to go there with the mentality of not being complacent.”

Emery has spoken often about the ‘no excuse’ culture he has implemented at Villa Park and Konsa said: “We’ve got into this position because we have taken it slowly and not looked too far ahead, or been complacent.

“As players, we have individual targets and group targets, but we’re not getting too excited.

“We’re not looking at the table after every game. If we keep doing what we are doing, I am sure at the end of the season we will be happy.”