Source: SKY_Sports
O'Neill rues tired legs
Martin O'Neill felt Aston Villa's busy week had taken its toll following the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea.[LNB] Villa were knocked out of the FA Cup by Everton last Sunday and then played out a 1-1 draw with CSKA Moscow in the Uefa Cup on Thursday.[LNB]They were below their best in their third game in six days as Nicolas Anelka's excellent goal secured three points for Chelsea.[LNB]O'Neill said: "It sounds like an excuse but I do believe the three games in quick succession took their toll. [LNB]"At the beginning, we looked leggy and Chelsea got into their stride very quickly.[LNB]"We got a bit of momentum before half-time and had a lot of possession in the second half without creating too many chances."[LNB]O'Neill admits it has been a difficult week but he is confident Villa can get back on track and hang on to fourth place.[LNB]"I am disappointed with the setback but we are far from finished. I suppose it is a sign of how far we have come that we are disappointed at being fourth in the table," he said.[LNB]"We have some quality players. You get disappointments but we will bounce back and there is not a dent in our belief.[LNB]"I thought we could win today. I still thought that at half-time. In terms of effort and determination they have given everything.[LNB]"The top four teams have the squads to cope with hectic schedules and it is something we will have to learn as well. But we are still in there fighting."[LNB]
