O’Leary reveals Villa vision of Europe

DAVID O’LEARY has revealed his “vision” to re-establish Aston Villa as a club competing in Europe as he prepares for an emotional farewell to Highbury, which he graced for 20 years as an Arsenal player.

O’Leary insisted he understands the frustrations of Villa fans disappointed at a season of underachievement, which has led to calls for him to quit after three years in charge.

But he pointed to the way Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger also came under fire after selling Patrick Vieira in the summer and has seen his decision justified with the sparkling display against Juventus in Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final.