Aston Villa manager Unai Emery leapt to the defense of Emi Martinez this week.

The shot stopper was the subject of criticism after the Midlands club's 2-1 win over Brentford.

The high flyers had to come from behind in the game, which led to altercations among opposing players at the final whistle.

“He is a winner and he is very important for us," said Emery of Martinez's role in the fracas.

“His commitment here is amazing. There are small things he knows he can improve, and he is doing that.

“Last weekend maybe he was thinking 100 per cent to win the game and maybe some reactions were not as he would want.

'But he is working on improving that, on reacting respectfully and as we would want. He needs to continue playing as he is doing, with the big performances he is giving us.

“Of course we are speaking about how we can all manage in some moments when we are playing under pressure. But Emiliano is completely committed to what we are building here. He is one of our 'captains' and he follows the messages I send.

“He is always thinking about his career. One part of that is Aston Villa. He decided to move here and then extend his contract because he is very happy. He always wants to set the level high."