For Aston Villa superfan Paddy Hennessy, the journey to a European away day is just as important as the match itself—even when the game is being played in England. The die-hard supporter from Erdington took an unconventional route to Villa's Europa League semi-final against Nottingham Forest, flying from Dublin to the East Midlands just hours before kick-off. "It's not a European away day unless you're on a flight," he laughed, keeping the tradition alive despite the match being held on home soil.

Hennessy, a season ticket holder who hasn't missed a game in three years, traveled with four friends for a whirlwind trip that included a day and night in the Irish capital before heading back to England. "We've done every European game for the last three years, which has been incredible," he said. "Some of the lads have been doing it for 60-odd years." For him, the extra effort is all part of the thrill.

Villa have been in scintillating form in the Europa League this season, winning 11 matches and boasting an impressive nine-game winning streak. Hennessy, expecting a tough contest against Forest, said he'd be happy with a draw. But whether it's a victory or a stalemate, one thing's for sure: his commitment to the journey—and the jersey—is unwavering. For fans like him, every match is a chance to celebrate the passion that makes football more than just a game.