Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has declared they're going for a top four finish this season.

O'Neill has assured fans they will do everything they can to earn Champions League qualification.

He told AVTV: "What has tended to happen over the past few seasons is the top teams eventually force their way into those top four positions.

"We had an experience of it last season. We were going along nicely until February time. We had a number of points on the board and perhaps if we had a bigger squad we may have been able to cope a bit better. We got into a position and we were really trying to break new ground. We all felt it was hard and we made it harder for ourselves by some of our performances at the back end of the season.

"At the time we were doing well, Arsenal - the team that seemed to be in the most danger - actually were putting a really great run together - a long, long run themselves - including matches in the Champions League. They ended up in the semi-finals of that prestigious competition and in the top four of the Premier League.

"The point I make is that the top sides find a way. They have the experience, the squads and the ability. It will be a tough ask this season again.

"Manchester City have got stronger obviously - they have spent a lot of money and spent it on very good players. I feel they will be there or thereabouts and will remain so for a few seasons. They are a definite threat. Tottenham are very strong. Those sides, without looking further down, have a chance to challenge that top four because they have the wherewithal to do it.

"I am hoping we can hang in and get a few results so supporters stay with us, thinking something may happen. We have just got to hang in there."