By Dan Harrison

Randy Lerner revealed his delight at the progress Villa have made this season under manager Martin O'Neill.

The Villa chairman praised the steady building process O'Neill has overseen at Villa Park, which has resulted in the team achieving European qualification for a second consecutive year.

While Champions League qualification is still a long-term ambition for Villa, Mr Lerner is happy with the way the club has progressed.

He said: "He's been fantastic. I think Martin has bought into the club. He has emotionally invested and I think it suits the way he is wired.

"We've improved steadily and we have qualified for Europe two years in a row."