Emery 'getting rewards his work ethic deserves'
- Published
Mention what Unai Emery brings and one Aston Villa insider told BBC Sport: "Attention to detail. An incredible work ethic. Down time does not exist as far as Unai is concerned.
"He is incredible and he is getting the rewards that work ethic deserves. He is also respectful to everyone at the club and very popular."
Emery arrives at about 8am at Villa's Bodymoor Heath training HQ and staff using the gym at the centre are used to the sight of the manager arriving at 8.30pm after finishing at his desk, gathering details on his iPad while on the exercise bike before even making notes while using the rowing machine.
He turns to his laptop once the formalities of a game are completed, sitting at the front of Villa's coach focusing immediately on the next match, the next opponent.
He has brought 23 Spanish coaches into Bodymoor Heath, a sign of Villa's trust and investment in Emery, but he has ensured they have totally integrated with those already there in a calm and welcoming atmosphere.
There is mutual respect from all at Bodymoor Heath, an environment fostered by Emery, whose English is said to be much better than some might expect.
Emery is joined by long-time associate Monchi, who was with him at Sevilla, as president of football operations while the appointment of the experienced Pako Ayestaran as his right-hand man was an ideal choice.
Ayestaran was Rafael Benitez's assistant when he enjoyed early success winning the Champions League and FA Cup at Liverpool. It was never quite the same at Anfield after he left, perhaps no coincidence as the 61-year-old is a personable and highly respected figure with great knowledge of the Premier League and the game in general.
Emery, who also has the trusted Damian Vidagany at his side, was not afraid to keep members of Steven Gerrard's staff, such as the outstanding set-piece coach Austin MacPhee, a workaholic in the mode of his manager.