Walsall boss Michael Flynn appreciated facing Aston Villa for yesterday's 4-0 friendly defeat.

Villa opened their pre-season campaign with a comfortable win over the Saddlers thanks to goals from Leon Bailey, Cameron Archer, Ollie Watkins and Douglas Luiz. The game also saw summer signing Diego Carlos make his debut for the club.

“It was a worthwhile run out for us," he told the club's official website. "Of course it was a tough ask for us to try and win the game.

“They have got a fantastic group of players and there are some that aren't even here because they are already on their pre-season training camp. It was a good run out and there were some really good performances."

"Villa have a fantastic squad. They have an absolute legend of a manager, who's going to have a bright career.

"I wish them well and thank them for keeping the buzz that's around the place at the minute.

"The atmosphere, nearly 10,000 fans, was outstanding."