Carew sets sights on top four

Villa striker targets place in Champions League

Last updated: 1st September 2008

Carew sets sights on top four

Carew: High expectations

Looking at Liverpool on Sunday, we have nothing to be scared of.

John Carew
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Aston Villa striker John Carew has revealed that he and his team-mates have a 'definite belief' they can break into the top four of the Premier League.

Liverpool, who finished in the final UEFA Champions League qualifying spot last season, were held to a goalless draw at Villa Park on Sunday and Carew believes the result represents progression.

Carew feels Villa have improved drastically under manager Martin O'Neill and the Norwegian thinks that was reflected by the respect offered from a cautious Liverpool side at the weekend.

Villa secured a sixth-placed spot last term and Carew is expecting an improved performance in 2008/09.

"The fact we are disappointed at not beating Liverpool shows the club is going forward," Carew said.

Ambition

"It almost looked like they came for a draw. They had a lot of guys behind the ball. The fact they played like that showed they are wary of our attack.

"It was difficult to create chances but their approach probably affected a bit of their offensive play as well because they didn't really create anything either.

"There is a definite belief among the younger lads that they can break into the top four.

"We were not 100 per cent satisfied with a draw against Liverpool and that means the club is moving in the right direction - and that is definitely to be amongst the top four.

"Looking at Liverpool on Sunday, we have nothing to be scared of.

"We shouldn't be scared of having that top four aim as an ambition. The squad looks really good and bigger and stronger than before."