James Milner believes Aston Villa can compete with the big spending clubs and challenge for a top four finish. Milner said: "Going out of Europe was disappointing. It's important a club like Villa are playing in Europe. It was a blow to go out so early particularly after all the hard work we had put in last season.

"When we didn't get through to the group stages of the Europa League, it was such a waste.

"Now we need to take that negative and turn it into our favour in league games, which we have done so far, and hopefully be back in Europe again next season.

"We want to improve year on year and the Champions League has to be a target although it's probably tougher than last season because of all the money spent by clubs like Manchester City and Tottenham.

"But we have a lot of quality. The manager has made some good signings and it's important we gel as a squad.

"We started the season with a disappointing result (against Wigan) but we have bounced back and that shows the character in the squad. We've had a few good games now and we need to keep improving."