End of the big four? O'Neill says Villa, Spurs or Man City could claim Champions League berth next s

14 April 2009 19:02
Martin O'Neill believes the Barclays Premier League will be even more competitive next season. Aston Villa have enjoyed a fine season under the former Celtic manager, threatening to break into the top four before falling away badly in the last two months, but O'Neill predicts an even tougher test next year. And the Villa boss has identified Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City as possible contenders to challenge for the Champions League places. 'We'd like to try and improve if at all possible but, if you look at Manchester City, they have the wherewithal to be really big players next season. 'You look at Tottenham Hotspur, who spent a lot of money in January time just to get out of trouble, which they accepted the fact it was a position they shouldn't have been in, and well done to them. Their rise has been terrific and next season they will be setting their sights very high again. 'You'll have other clubs, even clubs that have been a struggling a little bit, will have the wherewithal to go [higher]. 'So it's going to be really difficult. It's been difficult this season but we've kept our heads above water all year. Next season it's going to be even more difficult.'

Source: Daily_Mail