Aston Villa boss Unai Emery expects a battle today against Brighton.

Despite the Seagulls' struggles, Emery will not be underestimating them.

He said: 'The respect for them is high. Roberto De Zerbi is an amazing coach, he was playing very good with very good results last year.

“This year, they've changed a lot of players and it's normal. They need time to get again the same performances like last year and to be successful in their style.

“It's amazing how they were playing, how they are trying to play. The results are not the same, but I appreciate them a lot. I appreciate De Zerbi; I appreciate how they were playing; I appreciate their style.

“It's always very difficult. We played against them in different matches last year and this year as well, and on Sunday it's going to be very difficult.

“We have to compete very well and adapt to them a lot. We have to try to impose our positioning and game plan. It's going to be very difficult. They are playing at home and they're going to try to push with their supporters and be focused in 90 minutes.

“They will try to beat us and we have to be ready, focused 100% if we want to get something there."