Martin O'Neill: Attack is the best form of defence

Apr 11 2008 By Bill Howell

MARTIN O'Neill insists Villa will see out the season on the front foot, because attack is their best form of defence.

Villa can take a giant leap towards securing at least an InterToto place today with a win at Derby as chief rivals Blackburn are at Liverpool tomorrow and fast-fading Manchester City are at a resurgent Sunderland today.

O'Neill says their positive approach to the remaining five matches will remain exactly that.

"Team selections may have altered but our approach has never changed to games. We've always approached games to try to win them, even at Manchester United", he said.

"We might have had a look at things going to Old Trafford because you can't go there and attack with all guns blazing.

"But on the whole I feel attack is the best form of defence because we can cause teams problems going forward."

Villa's four goal blast against Bolton has given the team renewed confidence after a four-match stumble when the side leaked goals at just the wrong time, according to the Irishman.

"As it turned out against United, they scored at a great time. All sides need that goal, whether you're challenging for the title or trying to avoid relegation, it still gives you a lift.

"You might have all the confidence in the world, but if you don't score at the right time, you can get caught out."