O'Neill - Fans are crucial

Martin O'Neill has called on Aston Villa's supporters to play their part in the push for UEFA Champions League qualification. Villa have enjoyed an excellent campaign to put themselves in contention for a top-four finish in the Premier League.However, they have collected just one point from their last three games and there was some booing at the final whistle following the recent 2-2 draw with Stoke.Villa are still three points above Arsenal with 10 games remaining but O'Neill recognises how important it is for the fans to keep encouraging the players.He said: "The relationship between crowd and players in this vital run-in is of the utmost importance."Crowds can get agitated very quickly, although I don't think our crowd has had too much to be agitated about this season."There will be twists and turns, ups and downs in games, and it's important the crowd stays with the team throughout everything. That's absolutely vital, it's so, so important."Dual responsibilityO'Neill hopes the supporters and players will be able to feed off each other at such a crucial stage of the season.He explained: "I have said many times in the past that fans who pay their money have a right to voice their opinion but I think now, more than ever, it is essential we have a genuine team effort."This is about crowd and players teaming up together. We must work hard together to stay in that top four."There is a dual responsibility. The crowd has to lift the players when things are going not so brilliantly and players have to lift the crowd too with their performances."

Source: SKY_Sports