Unai Emery reveals pep talk with Aston Villa star ahead of FA Cup showdown
The Netherlands international forward joined from Borussia Dortmund for £21million in January but could not be added to the Champions League squad after the club also signed Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio and Axel Disasi.
Malen has been limited to just two starts in all competitions but is eligible for Sunday’s Cup quarter-final at Preston, where Villa will be aiming to set-up a semi-final date at Wembley.
Emery has reminded the 26-year-old he still has a major part to play this season.
The Villa boss: “With the issues we had deciding the list for the Champions League, it was not easy for (Andres) Andres or for him.
“I spoke with him before the break and told him I was happy with him. His adaptation is going well.
“I told him: ‘You have to focus yourself, to adapt as soon as possible’. I am happy and we will need you ready to play. This is the message.
“He worked very well in training and is ready for the match on Sunday. He can help us a lot.”
Emery believes Malen’s ability to play across the frontline can be a major asset.
He continued: “When we signed him we knew his capacity, his skills, how much he can help us in the process we have with him.
“He played a very good match against Tottenham (in the FA Cup) as a striker.
“Now again after two months and after the break he is training very well.
“Of course I don’t know how much he is going to play but he has to be ready.
“He has to be as well in the idea we have collectively to play and to help us. His qualities and his skills are very important in our structure.”
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