Moreno gets the message in Euro push

VILLA have set their sights on the European places after moving to within four points of seventh-placed Brighton.

They made it back-to-back home wins on Saturday with a

3-0 victory over Bournemouth. Unai Emery has taken 26 points from a possible 42 in his 14 Premier League matches since replacing Steven Gerrard in the dugout.

Left-back Alex Moreno, who was one of two new additions Emery made to his squad in January, says Villa are dreaming big.

“I’m very happy in the team. It was a very important win and another three points,” he said. “Our aim is to keep getting as many points as possible and get close to the European places.” Emery has made no secret of his desire to lead Villa back into Europe. The Spaniard has won the Europa League four times in his managerial career.

“He’s been clear with his ideas and I’ve felt comfortable since day one,” said Moreno. “He has achieved what he has achieved in his career and that makes him who he is as a manager.

“He has a good staff behind him who transmit his ideas to the team. They give confidence and we are doing really well thanks to him and his staff.

“I think his career reflects how he is as a coach and that will prepare us for the games coming up, which will be tough.”

Villa have been drawn at home to holders Chelsea in the Women’s FA Cup semi-finals next month, with Manchester United hosting Brighton in the other last-four tie.

While Emma Hayes’ Chelsea are looking to secure the trophy for the third time in a row, Carla Ward’s Villa are in the semis for the first time in their history, following Sunday’s 2-1 extra-time win over Manchester City.

United will also be making their first appearance at this stage when they take on a Brighton outfit currently under the interim management of Amy Merricks.

The ties are scheduled for Sunday, April 16, with the final taking place at Wembley on Sunday, May 14.