Monchi has admitted that the recently ended transfer window was 'intense and difficult' for the hierarchy at Aston Villa - and having navigated the month of January through to the end with five signings and six major departures, the president of football operations believes now the proof will be in the pudding when it comes to if their hard work will pay off.

Monchi, Damian Vidagany and Unai Emery, supported financially and in their decision making by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, worked until late at Villa's Bodymoor Heath base on Monday evening in order to haul late deals over the line in time, before the 11pm deadline. Villa added Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio and Axel Disasi, all on loan, in the final 48 hours of the window.

Having sanctioned sales and the loans of some notable first-team players, there was pressure on the Lions' transfer team to secure deals for targets, all the while being against the clock, but Monchi is satisfied that Villa have given themselves a strong chance to finish the campaign strongly as they welcome their various new arrivals.

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The Spaniard added the caveat that the results which follow from hereon out will reflect whether this January transfer window is revisited in a positive light or otherwise, as he paid tribute and gave his gratitude to NSWE and to Emery, who will now work with the newly shaped squad for the final months of the season.

"Good morning Villains, a new day begins," Monchi posted. "We leave behind an intense and difficult transfer window. The results will determine whether the work has been good or not. Thanks to the owners for their support, to Unai for his trust, to the workers for their dedication and above all to Damian Vidagany, indispensable support in everything we have done. Trust the project. UTV always!!!"

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