Russell explains blistering start to season

Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard hails 'big impact' of summer signings Leon Bailey and Diego Carlos after opening-day win at home to Everton

'It just felt normal playing with these guys' - Arsenal new boy Gabriel Jesus reflects on 'perfect' Emirates Stadium debut

Steven Gerrard hailed the 'big impact' of summer signings Leon Bailey and Diego Carlos after Aston Villa kicked off their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 victory at home to Everton. Bailey, a £30million signing from Bayer Leverkusen, scored the opening goal of the game in the 30th minute, before Danny Ings doubled Villa's lead just before half-time. Everton pulled a goal back through Anthony Gordon in the second half, but Villa held on to secure all three points. Gerrard was delighted with his team's performance, and praised the impact of his new signings. "I thought we were excellent," he said. "We dominated the game from start to finish. We could have scored more goals, but overall I'm very pleased with the performance. "Leon Bailey and Diego Carlos were both excellent. They've come in and made a big impact. They're both quality players, and I'm sure they'll be important players for us this season."

Bailey was a constant threat to the Everton defence, and his goal was a stunning strike from outside the box.

Carlos was also impressive at the back, and he helped Villa to keep a clean sheet for the majority of the game.

Gerrard will be hoping that his new signings can continue to make a positive impact as Villa look to improve on their 14th-place finish last season.

In other news, Arsenal new boy Gabriel Jesus has reflected on his 'perfect' Emirates Stadium debut after scoring twice in the Gunners' 4-2 win over Leicester.

The Brazilian striker, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in a £45million deal this summer, scored his first goal for the club in the 23rd minute, and he added a second just before half-time.

Jesus was delighted with his performance, and he said that he felt 'at home' at the Emirates.

"It was a perfect debut," he said. "I couldn't have asked for more. I scored two goals, and the team won. It was a great feeling.

"I felt at home from the moment I stepped onto the pitch. The fans were amazing, and they really helped me to settle in.

"I'm really excited about the future at Arsenal. I think we have a great team, and I believe that we can achieve something special this season."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was also full of praise for Jesus, and he said that the striker has made a 'big impact' at the club.

"Gabriel has been excellent since he joined us," he said. "He's a great player, and he's already made a big impact on the team.

"He's a natural goalscorer, and he's also very good at creating chances for his teammates.

"I'm really excited to see what he can achieve at Arsenal. I think he has the potential to be one of the best strikers in the world."