O'Neill - Euro hopes still alive

Villa boss resolute despite Pompey loss

By James Dall   Last updated: 17th March 2008

Martin ONeill Aston Villa manager

O'Neill: Refuses to wave goodbye to Euro hopes

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Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is still optimistic of securing automatic qualification for Europe despite his side's recent dip in form.

Villa, who currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, have stuttered of late, managing just two wins in their previous eight games.

But O'Neill believes time is on his team's side as they look to respond after Saturday's 2-0 loss at Portsmouth and climb back into the top five.

"There's plenty to play for. Portsmouth, Blackburn, Manchester City are all there with also something to play for," he said.

"There is still nearly a quarter of the season left to go. There are a lot of points up for grabs still.

"I know the sixth place qualification has disappeared because of the teams who have reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup but the season is alive."

Mellberg appraisal

And Olof Mellberg, who was shown a second yellow card in the 89th minute at Fratton Park, has rued the dropped points against fellow European chasers Pompey.

"The defeat at Portsmouth was a massive disappointment. It was a game we really wanted to win to keep pushing for a European spot," he said.

"We created chances and didn't finish them, the first goal we conceded was cheap from a long ball and the second one was unfortunate."