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Shay Given makes Aston Villa and Newcastle comparison after Everton frustration

Aston Villa drew with Everton and missed a chance to go level on points with Liverpool at the top of the Premier League

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery(Image: PA)

Shay Given has downplayed fears that Aston Villa are struggling to break down teams set up to keep them out, after Unai Emery’s men were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw at Everton on Sunday.


Villa had 69 per cent possession and had 16 shots, six more than the Toffees, at Goodison Park but were unable to nick the goal that would have put them joint top of the table.


Alex Moreno had a ‘goal’ chalked out and Jhon Duran went close in the second half but the Claret & Blues go into their winter break in third place, two points off Liverpool having played a game more.


The former Villa goalkeeper was asked if he had concerns about Villa now facing defensive teams – and while he admitted that might happen more often he backed Emery to find a solution.

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“Possibly. But I think in their manager, they have someone who will look at it and study it and find a way,” Given told the Monday Night Club. “I do think that Aston Villa this year is probably the Newcastle of last season – the team that can sneak into the top four.

“Yes, it's still a big ask and yes, it's only the half way mark but the job that Unai has done has just been amazing and I don't think he'd be worried.

“He got asked that question at Old Trafford when they gave away a two-goal lead and he said ‘We are where we are’ and he was nearly laughing because of the season they're having. I still think if they can push on, I don't know, will they sign anyone this window? Perhaps.


“But I wouldn't be worried if I was a Villa fan, I'd be quite relaxed and comfortable in a sense that he's the guy will turn that away for him into more victories.”

Chris Sutton, another former Villa player, agreed adding: “I genuinely think that we are looking for things. Unai Emery would say ‘43 points’. They're top of the home table, aren't they? Seventh in the away table in the Premier League.

“They absolutely battered Everton early on and were slightly unfortunate. They've had some decent results away from home. They beat Spurs away, didn't they Brentford away - which is never an easy place to go. I think they're going fine.

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“They've exceeded all expectation this season but if they want to win the Premier League then they have got to start really putting the foot down. But what a season they've had.”

Do Villa struggle with defensive opponents? Have your say here

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