What Unai Emery will be thinking about Nicolas Jackson after Aston Villa draw vs Hull City

Nicolas Jackson made his second Aston Villa start in the draw against Hull City on Saturday.

Another game without a goal for the Villans made it three without hitting the net.

It has an eerie feel after doing exactly the same 12 months ago to begin last season.

That is a cause for concern in B6, although it is clearly not something to worry about based on how the campaign finished in 2024/25.

There will be a hope that the frustration in front of goal will soon end with Jackson leading the line.

The Senegal international started against Hull and gave a clear impression to Unai Emery of what he will bring to his side.

How did Nicolas Jackson perform vs Hull City?

The summer signing started once again in claret and blue as he went in search of his first goal for the B6 outfit.

He was unable to do so against Arsenal on debut, and followed suit at the MKM Stadium.

That isn't to say that his performance was a let down.

The 25-year-old was busy across his 85-minute outing as he clocked up 29 touches and completed 17 passes with an 85 per cent accuracy.

He created one big chance and took one shot as his attacking threat was summed up by having the most touches in the opposition box on the pitch with six.

Jackson made six line-breaking passes and also helped going back the way with two defensive actions and four duel wins.

That all smacks of a positive performance, but it will be another factor that will delight Emery.

What does Unai Emery want from Jackson at Aston Villa?

The striker didn't find the net against the Tigers, but still did what was asked of him to a tee.

It was clear that Emery wanted him to get in between centre-backs and run the channel.

The one time that the striker came to feet, he was dispossessed and was immediately told by his head coach to do the direct opposite.

The right side was predominantly attacked as the gap between Nobel Mendy and John Egan was exploited.

Jackson did that well and helped to open up space for the likes of Emi Buendia and George Hemmings.

They could and should have both got on the scoresheet themselves and changed the game for the Villans.

Emery will be pleased what he's seen from Jackson as it certainly isn't all about the goals for the summer signing.