EMERY’S LOOKING UP

UNAI EMERY believes Aston Villa can have a worry-free Christmas after their first away success of the season lifted them five points clear of the drop zone.

Two goals from Danny Ings helped ease the fear of relegation that had grown under previous manager Steven Gerrard.

Emery began his reign with a home win over Manchester United, then saw a changed team lose at Old Trafford in the EFL Cup on Thursday. But with Villa next facing Liverpool at home on Boxing Day, he said: “I’m so proud of our players and how we worked. And I’m proud of our supporters.

“They were really helping, they transmitted us their support.

“The players were feeling we’re at the bottom of the Premier League and two big victories gives us confidence and a good atmosphere for the work in the next few weeks.”