Nicolas Jackson gives Unai Emery perfect response in Aston Villa win

Nicolas Jackson delivered exactly the response Unai Emery wanted as Aston Villa secured their first Premier League victory of the season with a 3-2 win at Tottenham.

Jackson had endured an indifferent beginning to life at Villa following his move from Chelsea, despite opening his account in the Champions League. He was substituted at half-time against Nottingham Forest last weekend after receiving a yellow card and being warned that another incident could result in his dismissal.

Against Tottenham, another unnecessary booking early in the second half prompted an immediate reaction from Emery.

After Jackson was booked for delaying a restart, Emery shouted towards his striker and pointed at his head, seemingly reminding him to remain focused.

It followed the manager’s comments before the game about the importance of controlling emotions.

“We need players focused on playing and not the issues that are disturbing us,” Emery had explained, referencing Jackson’s booking against Forest and Joao Gomes’ red card at Brighton.

Jackson responded in the best possible way.

The striker controlled a bouncing ball before finishing across Antonin Kinsky to double Villa’s advantage and produce the type of attacking moment Emery will want to see regularly this season.

The manager celebrated enthusiastically on the touchline as Jackson rewarded his decision to keep him on the pitch.

Johan Manzambi had given Villa the lead on his full debut before Jackson made it 2-0. Emi Buendia then produced an excellent finish for the third.

Tottenham eventually responded through Conor Gallagher and Jan Paul van Hecke, but their late goals could not prevent Villa securing a crucial 3-2 victory.

Jackson’s contribution was particularly important given the responsibility he now carries in Villa’s attack.

Previous performances had seen him struggle for service, but his Tottenham goal demonstrated the combination of control and finishing that Villa need from their new striker.

After previously relying heavily on Ollie Watkins for goals, Emery will need Jackson to become a consistent contributor if Villa are to achieve their objectives this season.

The Tottenham performance was an important step in that direction.

Jackson will now look to build consistency after adding a Premier League goal to the one he has already scored in the Champions League.

For Emery, the challenge is getting that attacking output while ensuring Jackson maintains the emotional control his manager has repeatedly demanded.