Aston Villa struggles 'worth it' for Champions League nights

Aston Villa look a "very tired team" from their Champions League exploits so far, but it is still "worth it" says fan and host of Married to Claret and Blue podcast Rupert Pybus.Unai Emery's side have the opportunity to qualify for the Champions League top eight when they host Celtic on Wednesday night.Having been plagued by injury issues this season, Villa will be desperate to avoid the two additional games required should they finish ninth or below."I think we've played seven times in the league after Europe, and we've lost or drawn six times," Pybus told BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast. "We don't play well afterwards. "We're a very tired team at the moment, and that's where Celtic have a big chance because again, we played quite poorly at the weekend, particularly in the second half and we looked shattered."They had the weekend off because of the storms, so I think it's a good opportunity for Celtic. However, Villa have spent 40 years in the wilderness outside the Champions League, and so that's a positive thing."We're all really enjoying it, and even if it means that we've had to accept some poor league form, we have had amazing nights against Bayern, beating Bologna, and nearly beating Juventus. So, it's been worth it, even if we're struggling along."I think overall, the Villa fans are just delighted."Listen back on BBC Sounds

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Daily Mirror

an hour ago

• Daily Mirror

Chelsea legend quits as boss of side on brink of Champions League qualification

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Glasgow Times

an hour ago

• Glasgow Times

Newcastle United 'scout' Celtic star several times

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