Morgan Rogers felt Aston Villa emerged as worthy winners from Saturday’s Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest.
The hosts raced out of the traps at Villa Park and scored twice in quick succession, including one from the 22-year-old, to lead 2-0 at the break.
Jota Silva pulled one back but it failed to deter Villa, who held firm to make it seven consecutive wins in all competitions.
“We knew going into the game that we had to win ultimately if we wanted to challenge and get into the Champions League positions, which we set out to do at the start of the season,” Rogers said.
“We were against a good team who are in great form and we knew it was going to be difficult, but we started the game incredibly well and got two goals. That settled us down and got us playing.
“In the second half, we knew they were going to come back at us, and they did. We just did enough to withstand their pressure and attacks because they’ve got quality.
“I thought we did really well and deserved the win in the end.”
Rogers bagged his 13th goal of the season against the Reds, the latest high of an incredible campaign for the playmaker.
Far from being content with making his England debut and shining in the top flight, Villa’s No.27 is determined to keep improving.
He said: “I’m focused and I just want to keep going and not let the outside noise change the way I am, the way I’m training and playing, and my attitude.
“I just want to keep going and keep improving. It’s nice to have my family at home who are proud of me, those are really nice moments.
“I just want to keep improving and to keep shining, and that’s what I’ll continue to do.”
