Surprised Unai Emery makes Aston Villa demand after Europa League attendance

Unai Emery admitted he was surprised that Villa Park wasn't packed for Thursday's Europa League curtain-raiser against Bologna.

Just over 35,500 supporters turned up to witness Emery's men claim their first victory of the campaign, with John McGinn netting the decisive strike in the 13th minute.

Ollie Watkins entered as a substitute to earn a penalty but saw his effort thwarted by Łukasz Skorupski, whilst Santiago Castro rattled the crossbar for the Italian visitors.

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Securing three points was paramount for Villa on Thursday following six matches without triumph at the campaign's outset.

Villa's underwhelming displays thus far this term, combined with steep ticket costs, represented two crucial elements behind the vacant seats throughout the ground last night.

Adult admission ranged between £55 and £67 for non-season-ticket holders, while season-ticket holders faced charges £10 lower in designated sections of the ground.

Earlier this month, the club revealed that season-ticket holders could secure a four-match package providing entry to all home group-stage fixtures at a 20% reduced price.

When questioned about Villa Park's atmosphere on Thursday evening, Emery remarked: "Grateful always with the supporters when we are playing at home, of course, in Villa Park or away. But really, I was a little bit surprised yesterday when the stadium was not full.

"It is a surprise because we are very motivated and excited for the Europa League. We will need the supporters with the same motivation, and the same being excited like we are.

"Of course, I don't have doubt because they are going to support us in every match we are going to play. But yesterday a little bit, yes, I was surprised.

"But of course the supporters, they are always with us, loyal supporters always. But hopefully we can feel together the same motivation and the same energy we will need for the rest of the season."

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