Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has called on the side to secure the one victory required to achieve Premier League safety when they travel to Southampton next Saturday.
The 39-year-old Republic of Ireland international shot-stopper retained his place between the sticks ahead of former number one Brad Guzan, as Tom Cleverley’s goal just after the half-hour mark sealed a 1-0 win against West Ham at Villa Park on Saturday.
It was a third win in four games in all competitions for Tim Sherwood’s side as they moved four points clear of Hull City who occupy the final relegation spot, with only two games remaining – against the Saints at St Mary’s and at home to relegated Burnley on the final day of the season.
Villa look certain to go to their FA Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley on May 30 a Premier League side, but Given has warned against complacency having witnessed the likes of Leicester and Sunderland suddenly rediscover some winning form to jump out of the bottom three.
He told Sky Sports: “It’s amazing how many teams are picking up wins at the back end of the season – it’s so close – but hopefully another win will get us across the line.
“If you look at the last few weeks, some of the teams down there have produced results that have been amazing. Teams can get results and drag other teams into it as well.
“Just look at Leicester. They have won six out of their seven games, which is ridiculous when you think they couldn’t win a game before that.”
Villa are now 67.00 to be relegated, while they can be backed at 5.00 to pick up a survival-clinching win at Southampton next Saturday.
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