Martin O’Neill backs defence of Euro crown

Mar 4 2009 By Mat Kendrick

“But the fact is a couple of years ago it seemed the fourth team was getting the priority.

“I might be speaking against myself, but I think the side that wins the competition should be able to defend it.”

Of the current Big Four clubs involved in the Champions League, Arsenal look more likely than Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea to miss out on the top four.

But, even though O’Neill believes Arsene Wenger’s team still have the quality to triumph in Europe this term, he insists that potential scenario will not alter Villa’s targets.

“Arsenal are capable of winning the competition,” added O’Neill.

“They are going to start to get their big players back in the next week or so.

“We have a number of games to try and win, and we are going to try and stick with it.

“I was asked whether I was still confident about finishing in the top four. We will still be there or thereabouts at the end.”