Shay Given has pleaded with Aston Villa fans to get behind them for their crucial clash with Tottenham.

Villa boss Alex McLeish has been subject of intense abuse from supporters for much of the season.

"Whatever their thoughts, the most important thing is that Aston Villa stay in the Premier League," said Given.

"Of course, they were disappointed last Tuesday. We all were. It is important we stick together. It's not about the manager. It's about the players. About Aston Villa as a club."

Villa fullback Alan Hutton added: "We know they are disappointed, but if they could put that to one side and get behind us for what is a huge game, it would be a massive help. It does give you a lift to have the crowd totally behind you, especially at such a big stadium as Villa Park."