Reo Coker eyes top four

Nigel Reo Coker believes that Aston Villa can be the side that emerges from the shadows this year, and challenge for a place in the top four in the Premiership; and thus Champions League football.

Reo Coker admitted: “It makes us a stronger squad - and a more serious contender to break into the top four. It is very important that we managed to hang on to Gareth Barry.

“Martin (O'Neill) has got his masterplan. I'm sure he knew what he was going to do from a long time ago and now he's finally getting the team together that he wants.”