Aston Villa eye FA Cup semi-final spot as silverware dreams continue

Aston Villa’s season has been nothing short of remarkable. Unai Emery has taken them from European hopefuls to genuine contenders for silverware on two fronts.

As they prepare to face Preston North End in the FA Cup quarter-finals, they know this competition represents a real chance to cap off their campaign with a trophy.

Emery’s side overcame West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur before defeating Cardiff City in the last round. Their progression has been smooth, but this is their first away test in this season’s FA Cup.

Preston may not seem like the most daunting opponent, but they have earned their place here.

Paul Heckingbottom’s side stunned Burnley 3-0 in the last round and have made Deepdale a fortress in this competition.

However, history is against them. Preston have lost 18 of their last 19 FA Cup matches against top-flight sides and have not reached this stage since 1966.

By contrast, Villa have been ruthless in FA Cup quarter-finals. They have won their last four ties at this stage, with their most recent coming in 2015 when they went all the way to the final.

Emery, who has built his reputation on knockout success, believes maintaining high standards is key at this stage of the season.

“Now we are in another moment where we have to be very demanding because our ambition is to get the objective we want for the season,” he said, reinforcing the need for focus.

Villa went into the international break in strong form, winning four consecutive matches across all competitions.

Preston will take confidence from their home record. They have already beaten Charlton Athletic, Wycombe Wanderers, and Burnley at Deepdale, and they will relish the underdog role.

However, they have not beaten Villa in their last 15 meetings, a record that does not bode well.

“The tie on Sunday is very important as we aim to regain our style of play after the international break,” Emery added, recognising the need to hit the ground running again.

Villa have the quality and experience to handle the occasion. If they can maintain their recent standards, a semi-final berth should be theirs.