rewrite this title ‘Still work to do’ – Emery not getting carried away with Rashford brace and spot at Wembley for FA Cup semi-finals

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery took a grounded approach to his post-match press conference after his side booked their place in the FA Cup semi-finals.

The Villans beat Championship side Preston 3-0 to advance to Wembley, with Marcus Rashford getting his first and second goals for the club.

Jacob Ramsey sealed the deal in the 71st minute on what was a comfortable afternoon for Villa.

But their journey will be much tougher when they face Crystal Palace in the final four, with a spot in the final up for grabs.

All the talk was unsurprisingly about Rashford after his performance, but Emery was very measured in his assessment of the Manchester United loanee.

Speaking after the game, he said: “Firstly, his commitment to work and adapt quickly is very important. He is doing it. To feel comfortable playing at his best level, there is still work to do. Weeks to get it. Today, he did one step forward, feeling comfortable, gaining confidence and scoring goals.

“He was getting better, but today was a step forward in his adaptation and helping us. This is the moment for the team, the players, the supporters and this year we are now starting in April to be motivated and excited.

‘The epitome of confidence’ 🥶

Marcus Rashford scores his second in five minutes with a no-look penalty from the spot. #BBCFootball #FACup pic.twitter.com/31UuSFwKE3

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) March 30, 2025

“We have lots of objectives to face. The FA Cup is very important and now we are in the semi-final. It is very important for the supporters. We are happy, but we have to keep calm and prepare for the game against Brighton.

“He is playing in the idea and plan we are doing with him. He played more as a winger on the left side and the striker. Today we decided to play him as a striker to get of him his qualities so he can feel confident. The first half, not completely, but the second half he felt better with scoring goals.

“There is still work to do and adaptation to get together, the teammates and himself. Today, I think this was one step forward. He was coming here in the last two months not training consistently and not feeling very fit in the first matches with us. After playing more and with the national team, it has helped him to feel better. Today was confirmation of his progression with us.”

Rashford himself was delighted to be able to bag a brace and put any questions over his quality to bed.

He added: “It’s a great feeling, I feel like I’ve been getting fitter and playing better football since I’ve been here. It’s always nice for a forward to get a goal so hopefully, it continues.

“We have to take it one game at a time and give it 100% on the pitch and see where it takes us. We’re very ambitious.

“Step by step. I think I can still get fitter. I missed a lot of football before joining up with them. My body feels good and I’m enjoying my football for now.”