Matty Cash identifies Aston Villa problem that goes beyond defence

Matty Cash says Aston Villa need to become harder to break down as a team as they seek their first home victory of the season against Fenerbahçe.

Unai Emery’s side welcome the Turkish club to Villa Park on Wednesday after Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Brentfordextended their wait for a home win.

Cash believes improving their organisation requires a response across the side, with responsibility shared beyond the players in the back four.

Matty Cash calls for a stronger collective effort

Speaking at Tuesday’s press conference, documented in Anadolu Agency’s transcript on Reuters Connect, the Villa defender said the team needed to become more structurally secure.

“I wouldn’t just say it’s a defensive line,” Cash said.

He pointed to the collective strength behind Villa’s previous success and called for players and supporters to help make home fixtures more difficult for opponents.

The Brentford draw demonstrated the frustration. John McGinn put Villa ahead in the second half, but Kristoffer Ajer equalised just two minutes later. Both were among the leading performers in our Villa–Brentford player ratings.

Cash made clear that Villa’s expectations remained higher.

“But at home, we need to be winning these games.”

Fenerbahçe test comes amid defensive absences

Emery must pursue that improvement while managing a shortage at left-back.

Matteo Ruggeri faces more than a month out, while Ian Maatsen is also unavailable. Aaron Wan-Bissaka replaced Ruggeri against Brentford and offers another option on that side.

Villa began their Champions League campaign with a 3-2 victory at Club Brugge, while Fenerbahçe drew 1-1 against Roma, as detailed in Sky Sports’ match guide.

Wednesday’s match kicks off at 8pm BST. Our Villa–Fenerbahçe TV and streaming guide explains how to watch.