Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has invited almost 300 fans to dinner!

The Sun says O'Neill has been under fire for leaving eight first-teamers at home for the UEFA Cup defeat at CSKA Moscow.

Some supporters who paid £1,500 for the trip to Russia were angry about boss O'Neill's decision.

But now the club have offered to host a slap-up meal for all 295 travelling fans at Villa Park.

And O'Neill will be there with some players. The stunt could cost £15,000 but owner Randy Lerner happily approved the move.

Fan Ashley Quarterman said: "It's a fantastic gesture."

O'Neill played the shadow squad as he is banking on bagging a Champions League berth.