Unai Emery challenged Aston Villa to deliver one of the most memorable seasons in their history after they storm the semi -final of the FA Cup.
Marcus Rashford's Double helped Villa win 3-0 in Preston to set up a last four draw against Crystal Palace in Wembley at the end of April.
They also compete against Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals of the Champions League and remain good in the shake-up to qualify again for Europe's Premier Club competition next season, via the Premier League.
When Emery took over in the autumn 2022, Villa feared that he was dragged into a relegation scrap. Now they are jealous of many of their rivals.
“I am proud of how the owners and the club responded,” said Emery. 'When we arrived here, we spoke about how much we wanted to play in Europe and we achieved it. We wanted to be contrary to a trophy – we did that last season in the Europa Conference League and now in the FA Cup this season.
'We have increased our level and our requirements. We have signed a few players who would have been impossible to take Villa three or four years ago, but we trust that the project we have can attract these players.
'We are more or less in the top eight of the Premier League, we are involved in the Champions League and the FA Cup. I think we can see the evidence of the ambition of the owners across the field. I am also demanding myself. '
These were the first goals of Rashford for Villa and now he and colleague loan who sign Marco Asensio 13 targets in 19 performances.
After Rashford had put Villa in front, Asensio gave him the ball to make the two of the penalty spot before Jacob Ramsey added the third.
Emery added: 'It's all about shared goals. We could win a trophy, but still not play at the same level as we play this season.
'It's about being consistent in the Premier League, coming to a European place and having a FA Cup run to enjoy our supporters. This competition means a lot to them and to play at Wembley will be fantastic.
“The supporters are the heart of the club and it is our responsibility to give them such moments.”
Although Preston was competitive to the first goal, they had no answer to Villa's extra firepower – as boss Paul Heckingbottom recognized.
Heckingbottom said: 'The five -minute spell decreased the game from us – scared, scared and the game has disappeared. Until then we had the best chance. You cannot hide your disappointment because of the occasion and the price, but I am proud of everyone who is connected to the club. '
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