Source: SKY_Sports
O'Neill hits back at critics
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has insisted his players are ready to 'stand tall' following a difficult period of form.
O'Neill has helped transform Villa's fortunes since he took over in 2006, and this season the club have exceeded expectations by competing for a UEFA Champions League berth.
Of late, though, their form has dipped and Arsenal have climbed into fourth place, with Villa seeking a first league win since the beginning of February.
But O'Neill continues to believe in his players and has moved to rally his troops, stating that they are ready to 'battle'.
Bothered
He told the Birmingham Mail: "When the team lose it is up to me to lift them and it is for others to try to knock them down.
"We have to stand tall in the position we are in. Expectations have gone as high as ever. That never bothers me.
"I have said this umpteen times that we want to have some sort of expectations.
"Occasionally you want a drop of realism in it but there is nothing wrong with expectation.
Not worried
"It is up to us to try and match it. As for the negativity that is around, I am not too worried about that.
"There was plenty of it around about before and there will be plenty of it around again.
"You have to go and battle it. I would not be worried about other people outside the ones who can influence the team.
"With a bit of luck we are going to qualify for European football again for the second consecutive year. That is what I would call getting ahead of yourself."
