Nicolas Jackson facing Aston Villa axe after Unai Emery has mind made up for him

Unai Emery needs to make Tammy Abraham his first-choice striker over the next few weeks after his brace in Aston Villa's 3-1 victory over Coventry City in the Carabao Cup third round.

The 28-year-old was given his first start of the season on Wednesday and was key to the club’s progression into the fourth round.

Abraham has mainly been used as an impact substitute this season, and hasn’t been given many chances to shine.

However, in the West Midlands derby, he proved exactly why he now needs to be favoured over Nicolas Jackson for a run of games.

When presented with chances, the striker put them away against Premier League opposition.

Therefore, Emery cannot now simply drop him, especially when Villa have only scored one goal in the top-flight so far this season.

How good was Tammy Abraham vs Coventry City?

Abraham was arguably the best player on the pitch when they beat Coventry on Wednesday.

According to Fotmob, he had three shots, two of which were on target, had a 1.24 xG, had five touches in the opposition’s box and won three out of five ground duels.

Therefore, Abraham did exactly what was asked of him, and his clinical nature showcased why he needs to be starting more often.

Emery cannot afford to drop an in-form player given the club’s current struggles up top.

As a result, Abraham has to become Villa’s first-choice striker until Jackson can find his feet at Villa Park.

Did Aston Villa deserve to beat Coventry?

When examining the stats, it is clear that Villa were the deserved winners from Wednesday’s game.

Overall, Villa had 57 per cent possession, 18 shots, nine of which were on target, 29 touches in the opposition’s box, four big chances and a 2.69 xG.

In comparison, Coventry had 43 per cent possession, 15 shots, five of which were on target, zero big chances and a 0.67 xG.

Therefore, Villa did put in a performance they can be proud of and one that should give them more confidence.

However, it remains to be seen if Villa can now use this victory to beat Tottenham Hotspur on the weekend as they look to pick up their first Premier League win of the season.