Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is all in favour of early proposals for a play-off for the fourth Champions League place. At present, the top four places in the top flight are guaranteed a Champions League spot, either directly into the competition or via a qualification round.

"I only heard about it yesterday and gave it a wee bit of thought last night," O'Neill is quoted as saying in the Express & Star.

"It's quite interesting. I wouldn't knock it immediately, particularly if we finish seventh in the league!

"I know the team who finished fourth would be galled if that was the case, but if you knew the rules in advance at the start of the season then you know the parameters.

"The Premier League seems rather glamorous, but it's a constant struggle.

"You always feel as though relegation is haunting you. You want to get into the middle section of the table and then at the end of the season there could still be a charge for this spot."

Outside of the 'big four' the remaining clubs would likely be in favour and only a 14-6 majority would be required should the plan ever come to a vote.

"It would be interesting to see what all the Premier League clubs thought about it, because there has to be 14 in agreement," added O'Neill.

"Outside the top sides I think people might go for it."

The obvious bone of contention, however, relates to congestion at the end of the season, in particular in a World Cup or European Championship year.

"I have to say there is definitely that element of 'where do you fit it in?"' said O'Neill, who has previously been through the demands of the play-offs with Leicester and Wycombe.

"But the prize is so big, you're talking about a Champions League qualifying game in August.

"The play-offs have become a massive thing now. I've experienced it myself.

"If you could guarantee me getting promotion through the play-offs, then I would take it every time."