Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill wasn't disappointed after their 0-0 draw with Wigan Athletic yesterday.

He said: "We didn't score - but in terms of effort we were relentless in the second half.

"We just couldn't force the ball over the line. It wasn't going to be our day.

"But in terms of application and effort, we were terrific again. I was proud of them - and I told them so afterwards.

"On another day, we could have scored three or four times - and the fact we didn't was not down to a lack of effort."

O'Neill was pleased to have striker John Carew back available after a three-month lay-off with a back problem, and he came on as a second half substitute.

He said: "I was pleased to have him back. He has been out a long time, since playing the last 15 minutes against Manchester United.

"We have done very well indeed since then. But it is good to have him available as another option for what lies ahead."