Unai Emery: Champions League qualification is Aston Villa's priority

Despite that opportunity, manager Unai Emery has made it clear that the Premier League remains the club's primary focus.

Villa's recent 4-3 victory over Sunderland on Sunday has strengthened their position, leaving them requiring just six points from their final five league matches to secure a return to the Champions League.

However, Emery has cautioned that qualification is far from guaranteed, urging his players to maintain concentration during the decisive run-in.

"We can feel better and we can feel some advantage with the opponents - but there are still matches to play," said Emery.

"It can give us confidence to get something more strongly in the Europa League.

"Our target is clear. We now have the option for a trophy in the Europa League and Champions League.

"But through the league if we are in the top five we will play Champions League and that is our priority."

Attention now turns to Saturday's away fixture against Fulham, a match that could prove pivotal in solidifying their top-four ambitions. With only a handful of games remaining, every result carries significant weight.

While European success offers an additional route to silverware, Villa are also aiming to end a 30-year trophy drought.