Aston Villa are trying to work their way back to the glory days 'in a hurry' after establishing themselves a Premier League club once again, according to The Athletic journalist Gregg Evans.

Villa won the European Cup and top flight title in the 1980s, but their last major trophy was clinched 26 years ago.

What's the latest news involving Villa?

It has been a season of ups and downs for Villa as they have undergone a change in the dugout and seen themselves climb away from a potential relegation dogfight after an underwhelming start to the season.

Dean Smith was sacked by Villa owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens following a run of five consecutive defeats, ending a reign which had seen the 50-year-old guide his boyhood club back into the Premier League via the Championship play-offs in 2019.

Smith was replaced at the helm by Steven Gerrard and, under his stewardship, Villa have now put daylight between themselves and the drop zone.

However, the Midlands outfit were knocked out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle as Manchester United sealed a narrow 1-0 win at Old Trafford last month.

Despite that disappointment, Gerrard has already revealed his long-term aim is to guide Villa into Europe.

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What has Gregg Evans said about Villa?

Evans believes Villa are rushing in their efforts to enjoy success despite only recently heading back into the top flight.

The journalist feels the Villans deserve credit for how they have adapted to life back in the Premier League and shown their ambition.

Evans told GIVEMESPORT: "What we forget is that Villa have only been back in the Premier League for two-and-a-half years, so they're trying to do everything in a hurry.

"I think the progress that they've made already is really impressive in two-and-a-half years."

Did Villa show ambition in the transfer market?

Villa were Europe's sixth biggest spenders in the January transfer window, so there is no denying that Gerrard was backed as he looked to strengthen the squad he inherited from Smith.

Gerrard's first acquisition was eye-catching as it involved Philippe Coutinho joining on an initial loan deal which can be made permanent for £33million from Spanish giants Barcelona.

Villa then spent big to welcome Everton's Lucas Digne to Villa Park for a fee which could be worth up to £25million.

Roma goalkeeper Robin Olsen has made the loan switch for the remainder of the season and Calum Chambers was acquired from Arsenal.