Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has heaped praise on Nicolo Zainolo this weekend.

The Midlands club moved up to fifth place in the Premier League table after a 4-1 win over West Ham.

Despite the issues surrounding him at present, Zaniolo was at his creative best in the contest.

Post-game, Emery told reporters: “Zaniolo I think played very well today. His adaptation is going well.

“It's not easy to introduce him in this squad, in this starting XI.

“It's the same for Carlos, Lenglet, Youri, the new players. I am happy with them and I am practicing every day on the training ground."