Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has admitted that he will need to be more active in the transfer market this summer if the Villains are to keep up the momentum from last season. The departures of Gareth Barry and Martin Laursen have concerned many Villa fans.

The manager said: "We're on the lookout. We want to strengthen the side. We have lost Gareth but we are hoping to be in a position to replace him.

"Having looked at the market and watched what has developed with the major transfers - Kaka and Ronaldo [to Real Madrid for £59m and £80m] particularly - you can definitely say it's interesting times.

"We are going to have to try and improve - even to stand still in this league. Manchester City and Tottenham will be looking to improve and I envisage Everton being strong again."