Villa pair Tielemans and Watkins admits AZ made them battle for win

Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans admits they were made to fight for their 2-1 Europa Conference League win against AZ Alkmaar.

Diego Carlos and Ollie Watkins struck for Villa after they had conceded the lead to the visitors.

Tielemans later said: "It was very tough. We had to be really patient and fight until the end.

"In the end we won so it's all good.

"We've been told it was a mistake from them [to disallow a goal early on] and they apologised. In the end it's OK.

"Legia are a tough team to play against. The next game will be very important."

Matchwinner Watkins also stated: "I thought it was close, I didn't celebrate because I thought it was tight. You never know with VAR.

"When you play teams twice, they study you and have a chance to put it right. They made it tough for us but we've won the game and that's all that matters.

"The first goal [disallowed effort after three minutes] should have counted. They said they made a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes.

"I'm really enjoying it. The team are playing good football and I'm getting chances. Delighted to be called up again [for England]."