Amadou Onana saluted Aston Villa’s supporters following the club’s final home match of the season.
The Villa faithful were in fine voice yet again on Friday night to help Unai Emery’s side secure a crucial 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur.
Victory over Spurs set a club-record sequence of 18 Premier League matches unbeaten at Villa Park – as the Villans also made it 32 wins in a single top-flight campaign for the first time.
Manager Emery, his staff and players enjoyed a post-match lap of appreciation, during which Onana was able meet and greet supporters, pose for photos and perform his three fist pump celebration to the sound of cheers from the claret and blue support.
Asked about his rapport with the fans, the midfielder told VillaTV: “It’s amazing.
“I always say, this is my way of saying thank you because the fans have supported us throughout the season, in the good and bad moments.
“We do it for them as well, it’s my way of saying thank you.”
Ezri Konsa set Villa on their way against Spurs when he broke the deadlock in the 59th minute, turning and firing home amid a crowded penalty area from Ollie Watkins’ header.
Boubacar Kamara then drilled home his first goal of the season from the edge of the penalty area, sealing a third successive victory and clean sheet as well as an eighth win in nine league matches.
Victory takes in-form Villa on to 66 points in the club’s bid to secure a top-five finish, with a final-day trip to Manchester United next weekend set to conclude the campaign.
Summer signing Onana impressed again in the heart of midfield against Tottenham, and he was glowing as he reflected on his maiden campaign at the club.
“It’s been absolutely fantastic for me this season,” he said.
“A couple of injuries, but it doesn’t take away the fact I’ve been welcomed really well here. It feels like home.
“Everyone is trying to help me get better every single day and I’m really grateful for the opportunity.
“We have such a strong midfield, it makes it tough, but it keeps you on your toes as well.
“You’ve got to be on your best game to be in the starting XI.”