Particularly after a loss, it can be frustrating for Aston Villa supporters to see how their side lines up or witness the changes that are made within a match. While it may appear so simple to make a selection or bring on the needed substitute, the reality is that there isn't going to be anyone who truly knows what's best for the club better than Unai Emery.
Granted, a manager can become tunnel-visioned and fail to see past an initial wrong inclination. That is far from the case or even close to a concern with Emery, however. Instead, this was a talented, well-rounded Villa squad, and any player excluded would have had a good case to have seen increased time on the pitch. Particularly after a defeat, this would have been the source of a lot of discussion and debate.
Throughout the week, though, Emery and the Villa staff will have seen who is performing at their best. Over the course of the season, they will have also gained further insight as to who plays best together and where to best put players in a position to succeed within the system.
Someone like Morgan Rogers may still find himself on the pitch at a position that isn't the most ideal for him. That speaks to the quality of player that he is, in that he can provide a versatile role for Villa. His is only one example of some of the discussions that would often come up before, during, and after Villa matches.
Something of a blessing at Aston Villa
It is difficult to fully assess what the best course of action is. Rarely are teams able to have so much depth and so many options that they can have players on the bench who probably would see playing time on most other squads or in their ideal, preferred position.
Winning ultimately cures all. Rest assured, following a loss, there isn't anyone more displeased and looking for a solution forward than the Villa boss.