Ollie Watkins ended his goal drought as Aston Villa battled to a 1-0 away win at Lille in the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie. After a low-key opening, it was Lille who finished the first half strongly.

Forward Olivier Giroud returns as Lille make three changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Lorient in Ligue 1 last weekend. Chancel Mbemba comes into the back four and Ngal'Ayel Mukau also starts in midfield for the French side.

Aston Villa's players celebrate a narrow but potentially vital win on Thursday evening Sameer Al-Doumy/ There was an acceptance internally something needed to change after Chelsea. Unai Emery’s repeated references to “structure” following a confusing,

Lille defender Thomas Meunier admits there's disappointment after their home defeat to Europa League opponents Aston Villa on Thursday.

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery, speaking to TNT Sports after the 1-0 win over Lille: "We played a very serious match, [we were] organised, respecting the competition and we know how difficult this match is in Europe,

Aston Villa secured a narrow but valuable 1-0 win over Lille in the first leg of their Europa League tie, with Ollie Watkins’ second-half header the difference in France. Lille started brightly in front of a vocal home crowd and looked the more threatening side during the early stages.

The first leg of the Europa League round of 16 tie is due to kick off at 5.45pm GMT on Thursday 11 March at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille. Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1 with coverage from 5pm GMT. A live stream will be available via discovery+.

BirminghamLive brings you the talking points from Aston Villa's 1-0 win over Lille in the first leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie