O'Leary: I care as much as fans

David O’Leary has insisted he is “passionately committed” to Aston Villa as he hit back at claims from fans that he is unconcerned about the future of the club.

The Villa manager came under fire from supporters who chanted “O’Leary out” after the weekend drubbing by Everton at Goodison Park.

He has angered Villa followers by claiming their expectation levels for success are too high compared to the European Cup glory days of the early 1980s.

But the former Arsenal star is safe in his post for the foreseeable future and living in London after holding a meeting with Villa chairman Doug Ellis yesterday which was planned to discuss upgrading Bodymoor Heath.

O’Leary said: “I get a little upset by the idea that the fans might think we don’t care. The staff and myself become more passionately committed to this club, and its long-term ambitions, with every day that we work here.

“I care as much as every one of the fans and I share their frustrations. But I still maintain that this club has a lot to look forward to.

“The agenda this season has, for quite a while now, just been about surviving. But we have got 24 points to play for and, with the home games we have got to come, I still think we have it in us to beat last season’s total of 47 points.

“Then, if we can do that, and achieve safety as quickly as possible in the process, then we can truly turn our attentions to next season.”

O’Leary is already looking to next season’s preparations and Villa will be based in Germany for their pre-season training camp after games against Walsall, Hull and Wolves.