McLeish praises Villa charges

Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish praised the fighting qualities of his young side following the 0-0 draw with Sunderland.

The midlands club had to cope with the loss of striker Gabriel Agbonlahor and defender James Collins through injury but are now five points above the bottom three ahead of Tuesday's home clash with Bolton. McLeish said: "Sunderland are a very good side with a lot of experience but the boys had the chances to win it with just a bit more quality in the final third of the pitch. "They gave everything they could and the young boys are playing out of their skins. We have got four games to go and we have got to try and take points in every game. We are capable of that with the spirit the boys are showing." McLeish insists he has no regrets about taking the Villa job last summer, 10 months after O'Neill quit. He said: "I am sure the fans loved Martin O'Neill when he was here and they had some great seasons. A lot of those players have now gone from the club but I don't think I have made a negative decision in taking the job."