John Carew says Aston Villa can be proud of their campaign - despite a slump after the New Year.

Carew said: "The fact we have qualified for Europe is still an achievement in itself.

"We created the opportunity for ourselves to get into the Champions League. It was maybe not expected before the season that we would be so close and be in contention for so long. But we knew we could improve from last season, when we were sixth.

"We've had a great season. Of course, in the end we didn't manage to do what we had to do in the fight with Arsenal for fourth position. But, if we can manage to stay in fifth place, then we've improved again from last season and we're just going in the right direction."

Carew is confident Villa can mount a strong challenge in the Barclays Premier League in addition to Europe next season after an under-strength side bowed out at the last-32 stage of the UEFA Cup during the current campaign.

He said: "I think we will be better equipped for Europe next season. That's the goal. We have improved this season and the players here are getting better and better. What will happen to the squad, I don't know? But, with the team we have, I think we will get better each year.

"We are learning each season and, if we find ourselves in the same position we did this year, fighting with the top four in the league, I think we will handle it even better.

"Is the squad big enough? For the amount of games we have played this season, I think it is okay. With four competitions, the more good players we have the better, but it's not up to me to comment on that."