Unai Emery has labelled Emi Martinez “the best goalkeeper in the world” and says his commitment to Aston Villa is “massive” after a deadline day move to Manchester United fell through.
The Argentina international had his heart set on joining United but the Old Trafford club instead went for Senne Lammens from Antwerp, leaving Martinez in limbo.
He jetted off on international duty but is now back and likely to come back into the side for tomorrow’s trip to Everton.
Emery said: “Everything happens with players, maybe staying, maybe they were close to leaving, maybe other players were close to others or to join us. It’s normal, I understand it completely, everything.
“Him staying here is good news, I am so happy. He is the best goalkeeper in the world, his commitment to Aston Villa is massive. He is always training to get his best, respecting Aston Villa.
“Some circumstances happen. Everyone is happy, the energy today was very good. Emi is happy and now he knows his challenge is with Aston Villa and his national team. He has a lot of challenges this year himself.”
Villa chase first win, and first goal, of the season at Everton
It has been a dismal start to the season for Villa, who have claimed just one point from three games and are yet to score.
They were active in the latter days of the transfer window, bringing in Jadon Sancho, Victor Lindelof and Harvey Elliott.
Of the three only Elliott is likely to play at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Emery explained: “Sancho was not training with the group [at Manchester United] and physically he will need time.
“Harvey was training and playing consistently with Liverpool and is more or less fit.
“Lindelof was training individually and he is available to be with us but he will need time to know us tactically.”
Former Everton duo Amadou Onana and Ross Barkley will miss out on a return to Merseyside.
“Matty Cash is available,” said Emery. “We have some players injured who are close, [Andres] Garcia, [Boubacar] Kamara and [Amadou] Onana. Ross Barkley has a personal issue and I think he will come back and be available soon, but not yet.”
