Ollie Watkins has set his sights on top spot in Group E following Aston Villa’s 2-1 victory over AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Villa secured back-to-back wins over their Dutch opponents and have now won three successive matches in the competition.
The triumph leaves Unai Emery’s side level on nine points at the top of the group alongside Legia Warszawa, with the Polish side next up in the competition at Villa Park.
Speaking after the win over AZ, Watkins said: “I think we need to top the group and finish in the strongest position we can.
“We want to win every game possible.
“Now, focus on the league, Fulham on Sunday. Another game here at Villa Park, it’s going to be a good game, make it difficult for them, and the crowd plays such a big part.
“Their support doesn’t go unnoticed and we’ll need them again on Sunday.”
Watkins met substitute Douglas Luiz’s clipped ball over the top to head home with nine minutes remaining and secure all three points against AZ.
It capped a Villa comeback after centre-back Diego Carlos rose highest to nod home Leon Bailey’s corner and register his first goal for the club, cancelling out Vangelis Pavlidis’ 52nd-minute opener.
With both sides seeing efforts ruled out for offside during an entertaining encounter, Villa were made to work hard for a second success in a matter of weeks against the Eredivisie side, who are unbeaten domestically this term.
“It was really tough,” said Watkins.
“They’d obviously done their homework, watched us, and from the first game when we played them, it was a different story.
“They made it difficult for us and fair play to them.
“But we kept persevering and we got there in the end.
“We’ve come away with the three points and we’re joint-top of the group, so it’s a good night.”
Watkins added: “I think going a goal behind, we kept playing the way we know how to play, kept going, and that shows a lot of courage.
“I’m proud of the boys and I’m glad we got the win.”
Watkins registered his 10th goal of the season in the triumph and fifth in the Conference League.
It capped a day which also saw the Villa striker named in Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad for the November internationals.
Reflecting on his goal, Watkins said: “I’m happy with that.
“The game wasn’t very open, I like it when it’s open and it’s end to end. There’s a lot more space for me.
“But when there’s not, you have to keep believing you’re going to get a chance and Dougie’s put it on a plate for me. I couldn’t miss that one.”
