Leander Dendoncker says Aston Villa fans will play a big part in Sunday’s encounter against Manchester United.
The midfielder experienced a raucous Villa Park on his first start for the club last month, helping to inspire a resounding 4-0 Premier League victory against Brentford.
And the stadium is set to be rocking once more to welcome new head coach Unai Emery on Sunday, with Dendoncker keen to feel that atmosphere again.
He said: “I started against Brentford and that was my first start for Villa at home. We scored really fast and then the crowd got behind us and it was unbelievable.
“The atmosphere was really great, and they pushed us to the goals that followed after the first one.
“It’s of massive importance to play at home on Sunday against Manchester United. They’re a good team and a big club. We will definitely need them (the fans).”
Dendoncker is embracing a fresh start under the guidance of Emery, who took charge of training for the first time this week.
The 27-year-old is hopeful of what the future may bring under such a highly experienced coach.
“For us as a group, it’s always about trying to accommodate and adapt to what they want,” he said.
“It’s a new start for everyone and hopefully we can achieve good things together.”
United will present a tough challenge in Emery’s first game at the club, with the Red Devils currently fifth in the Premier League.
Dendoncker knows Villa will have to be on their game to secure a positive result.
He said: “It’s a good team with good players and a good manager as well.
"We will have to really be ready and well-organised in order to be able to create something for ourselves. It’s a big game for us.”
