Zion Suzuki targets improvement after Aston Villa debut against Arsenal

Zion Suzuki has vowed to keep improving after making his Aston Villa debut in Monday's narrow 1-0 defeat to Premier League champions Arsenal.

The Japanese goalkeeper was handed his first competitive appearance for Unai Emery's side as Villa attempted to respond to their difficult opening-day 4-0 defeat against Brighton.

Although Bukayo Saka's second-half goal ultimately separated the teams at Villa Park, Suzuki was encouraged by aspects of Villa's defensive performance and believes he can become an important part of Emery's build-up structure.

Villa entered the Arsenal game needing a response after their heavy defeat at the Amex Stadium.

They produced a considerably more disciplined performance and restricted Arsenal to only two shots on target, but Saka's decisive effort meant Villa finished without a point.

“First of all, I'm so disappointed with the result,” Suzuki said. “We wanted to pick up the win, but we lost.”

Despite Villa's improvement, the goalkeeper immediately focused on what he could have done differently.

“Every defender threw their body out and there were only two shots on target, but we conceded the goal. I could have done something, so I want to get better.”

Suzuki's responsibilities extend beyond conventional goalkeeping.

Emery wants Villa to operate with a relatively high defensive line, meaning the goalkeeper is expected to provide support behind the defence while also becoming the first stage of the team's possession structure.

“Our structure, our defensive line is a bit higher, so I need to help the defensive line,” Suzuki explained.

His distribution was one of the qualities that encouraged Villa to bring him into the squad, and the 24-year-old believes his ability with the ball can eventually help create attacking opportunities.

“Distribution is something I think is my strength, so I want to make some chances from my feet.”

Suzuki also revealed that Emery specifically wants him to utilise his kicking ability.

While he was pleased to finally make his Villa debut, the goalkeeper believes there is considerable room for improvement in that area.

“The manager wants my kicks, but I couldn't connect to their goal, so next time I want to help the team to create some chances from my feet.”

The performance nevertheless represented a significant defensive improvement from Villa following their opening defeat.

Suzuki's willingness to take responsibility after conceding just once also demonstrates the standards he is setting for himself as he begins life at Villa Park.

“I just want to help the team,” he added. “My strengths are to be confident and to play and help the team, so I want to keep improving.”

Suzuki will look to build on an encouraging individual debut while developing his understanding with Villa's high defensive line.

After two consecutive Premier League defeats, Villa now need results, but their improved defensive performance against Arsenal provides Emery and Suzuki with a stronger foundation to build from.