Mauricio Pochettino has admitted he’s wary of Aston Villa because of their amazing manager.

The Chelsea boss is hoping to lead his side to the FA Cup fifth round with victory against Villa on Friday night after securing a place in the final of the Carabao Cup earlier this week.

Asked if he’s surprised at Villa’s season so far, the Argentine said at a press conference: “No, they have not surprised me because first of all, I believe that Unai Emery is one of the best coaches in the world. He is creating a very good organization at Aston Villa.

“They have very, very good players, amazing players. It’s very clear the project of Aston Villa and that is why they are performing and winning games.

“No, they have not surprised me. I am so happy for him and all the people who are involved in this project, because I know so well, too many Spanish guys there and we know really well. We are so happy because they are doing a fantastic job.”

Pochettino added: “The way that they play, the philosophy, the idea of football, the quality of the player, there are too many.

“I am not going to go tactically but you can feel they are a very solid team with clear ideas and then experienced players with young guys, also, it’s a very good squad that is performing really well.”