Aston Villa Manager: James Milner would Get the Support of the Fans

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is now going through a tough time off the field in his attempt to keep hold on two of his best players James Milner and Ashley Young. James Milner has been picked up by Manchester City, while Tottenham Hotspur has been tracking winger Ashley Young.

Particularly City’s interest in Milner has been a matter of big concern for Martin O'Neill. Milner played a tremendous role last season to help the club finish 6^th in the point table.

Manchester City is now reportedly ready to splash £24 million, while Villa has been holding out for £30 million. Milner has revealed his desire to play for City next season. However, Villa boss is confident that if Milner decides to stay, he would get the support of the majority club fans.

O'Neill knows the extent of effect Milner’s departure could have on Villa, so he wants to ensure that the loss of Milner would come with a big price that he could use further in the transfer market to find a quality replacement.

O'Neill said to the media, “There is no question that James Milner will continue to give his best if the deal doesn't go through. The latest state of play is that Manchester City have gone as far as they want to. We'll wait with baited breath on that one, myself included...

...I think the overwhelming majority of supporters, seeing what James did for us last season, would be delighted if he stayed at the football club.”

Manchester City has been on a spending spree and has already spent around £100 million this summer. City’s total spending this summer would surpass last summer’s spending, if the protracted deal for Milner is materialized.