By Paul Brown

Stephen Warnock said he was ready and willing to give the young lions advice during the Rapid Vienna Europa League play-off first leg clash - but they didn't need it.

Warnock was full of praise for the likes of midfield terrier Jonathan Hogg and right-back Eric Lichaj, who both made their competitive debuts in the hostile Gerhard Hanappi Stadium.

The England left-back insisted one of his roles in Vienna was to guide Villa's less experienced stars through the difficult game.

But he was adamant they just got on with their jobs - impressing him greatly in the process.

He told AVTV: "I was very impressed. I thought the young lads acquitted themselves very well.

"There were a couple of debuts in there and they would have been very nervous going into the match because of the atmosphere.

"A few had travelled as part of the squad here last season but not played but I thought this time each and every one of them gave a great performance.

"I think every now and again we gave them advice but that's the same with any game. If you can help them, great.

"But I just thought the young lads acquitted themselves really well without that. They didn't really need anything. The seniors were there to guide them through the game - but they didn't need it."

Warnock was thrilled with Villa's fast start, although he knew Rapid would get stronger as the game wore on with the backing of their zealous crowd.

Despite the hostility felt, the expert defender revealed he loved playing in such trying situations.

He continued: "It was a great start.

"We played great football and we were comfortable on the ball right from the off. That was as a consequence of the weekend result against West Ham where we started really well too.

"It was something we talked about before the game and the lads took it on board.

"Rapid were always going to come back into it with the crowd and the atmosphere - and that's where the young lads will gain massive experience.

"I love going to places like that. I enjoy trying to silence the crowd and get a good result.

"It's great to come out of a game like that knowing you've played well and got a good result - and played in a good game overall."

Warnock has now called on Villa to finish the job as Rapid arrive on Thursday for the deciding leg.

He added: "It's set-up perfectly. Hopefully we can get the job finished and go into the Europa League properly and enjoy a good competition.

"It's far from over. We know that. The performance in the first leg will give us confidence that we can go back to our place, play football and hurt them."

Click here to check out ticket information ahead of second leg.