Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is still optimistic of securing automatic qualification for Europe despite his side's recent dip in form.

Villa, who currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, have stuttered of late, managing just two wins in their previous eight games.

"There's plenty to play for. Portsmouth, Blackburn, Manchester City are all there with also something to play for," he said.

"There is still nearly a quarter of the season left to go. There are a lot of points up for grabs still.

"I know the sixth place qualification has disappeared because of the teams who have reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup but the season is alive."