Ian Maatsen is in a positive mood heading into Aston Villa’s final three Premier League games of the season, starting with Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth.
The team are chasing a top-five finish and knows they need to keep the pressure up on the sides above them as the campaign reaches its climax.
Villa drew 1-1 with the Cherries in the reverse fixture back in October, and Maatsen expects them to be a tough opponent once again on the south coast.
“They’re a very good team with a lot of good players,” he said.
“We have to be really focused. Playing away from home is always tough, but I think if we’re consistent and we stick to our game plan, I’m sure we can get a result.”
The Dutchman added: “I’m feeling positive, confident and strong, and hopefully we can finish the season well.
“We’ve got three games left and I’m excited.”
Maatsen, who has started four of the last five top flight tilts, is approaching the end of his first season as a Villan.
After joining from Chelsea last summer, the 23-year-old has racked up 42 appearances in all competitions, showing his qualities with his performances at left-back.
Reflecting on his debut campaign at the club, he said: “It’s had ups and downs, but overall it’s been a very exciting season.
“I’ve played a lot of the games, so I’m very happy and I just want to continue and finish the season strongly.
“It’s given me a positive energy (playing at Villa Park), the fans are really good. Champions League nights have been amazing as well as Premier League games.”
Maatsen has shared the left-back spot with Lucas Digne, emphasising the strength in depth that Villa have had in the squad this season.
And no matter if he starts or comes off the bench, the Dutch defender is ready to play his part in the final three matches.
“We’ve got a good squad. It doesn’t matter if I start or if other players start, we need to bring the same energy,” he said.
“If it’s my chance or other players’ chance, we need to play the same way that we like to play.
“We have to be ready and give it full energy.”
