Unai Emery is gearing up for what he calls a "true test" as Aston Villa prepare to host Premier League champions Liverpool at Villa Park this Friday (kick-off 20:00 BST). The Villa boss faced the media with a mix of pride and realism, acknowledging the challenge ahead while reflecting on a season that has seen its share of ups and downs.

On the injury front, Emery confirmed no fresh concerns, with the same three absentees—Amadou Onana, Alysson, and Boubacar Kamara—still sidelined. It's a blow, but the Spaniard remains focused on the bigger picture.

Villa have won just three of their last 13 Premier League outings, a dip that Emery is keen to put in perspective. "We must analyse deeply at the end of the season," he said. "But my objective is to compete at our best level across different competitions, to have enough players and mentality to fight in the Premier League with the best teams. We're doing that." He pointed to the club's overall campaign, noting how they've outperformed the likes of Tottenham, Newcastle, and Chelsea to secure their current league position. "The best teams in the world build consistency by performing and being competitive in multiple competitions. We are doing that."

One topic that clearly weighed on Emery was the loan situation of Harvey Elliott. The Liverpool winger's spell at Villa has been a disappointment, with Arne Slot confirming Elliott will return to Anfield for pre-season. Emery didn't mince words, calling it "embarrassing for everyone involved." He added, "To explain the reason for this decision is very difficult, or it is easy, but it is not the moment. My apologies for Harvey Elliott are every day in my mind. We have our responsibility, and Liverpool have theirs. As a human and as a person, how the season has gone for him has been difficult."

Turning to Friday's clash, Emery was full of respect for Liverpool. "We are playing one team—the favourite and contender from the beginning. Last year, they won the Premier League. That's something fantastic, and we must be so proud to test ourselves against them."

For Villa fans, this is a chance to see how far their team has come. Can they rise to the occasion against the champions? Emery believes they're ready for the challenge.