‘They’re not the team they were’ – should Aston Villa be worried after winless start?

Villa launch their Europa League campaign at home to Bologna on Thursday, and will have to juggle the demands of playing Thursday-Sunday matches.

Their failure to finish in a Champions League position meant restrictions were put in place during the summer to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

In addition, the loss of loan signings Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio has impacted the depth of quality in the attacking department.

They were able to bring in Nice striker Evann Guessand for £26m plus £4.3m in add-ons, but the Ivory Coast forward has registered just two attempts on target.

“After playing 11 against 10 it should be easier to dominate and take advantage, but we were not playing with our identity,” added Emery.

“I’m disappointed and frustrated, more for how we are not achieving our identity, playing the football we’ve been successful with.”

Looking at positives for Emery, the next two Premier League games offer a decent chance of kick-starting their season.

Villa have back-to-back home games against Fulham on 28 September and Burnley on 5 October.

“We’re not happy,” goalscorer Cash told Sky Sports.

“As a team we’ve got to be better. With the quality we have, we need to be higher up the league.

“Over the last few years we’ve had a lot of highs at the club and at the minute we’re in a bit of a tough period.”

There is no doubt Emery’s spell at Villa has been impressive overall and no-one will be pressing the panic button yet.

However, time and patience remains in short supply in the Premier League.

Emery will know that unless Villa pick up a win soon, the pressure will increase.