Martin O’Neill’s men have gained automatic qualification for Europe next season after Norwegian International John Carew scored the only goal of the match in the first half against Hull at Villa Park.

Via ESPN

Carew’s 14th goal of the campaign 11 minutes before the interval to secure Villa’s first victory in 13 matches and the three points moved them back into fifth spot, above Everton but more significantly they are now assured of participating in the revamped Europa League next season.

It represents more progress for Villa under Martin O’Neill despite the disappointment of seeing hopes of competing in the Champions League disappear after their recent lean run.

But Hull remain embroiled in the battle to survive in the top fight and they have collected only two points from their last seven games although they are still three ahead of 18th-placed Newcastle.

Villa were worthy of their first home league success since mid-January despite not firing on all cylinders.

Fabio Capello was in attendance to witness a Villa side containing eight England players in the starting line-up.

O’Neill said: “This victory has confirmed European football for the second year running which is an achievement in itself.

“Some years ago this club used to feast on European seasons but there has been a bit of a famine recently.”We can’t finish worse than sixth – the same position as last year – but we can still get fifth spot and that is the aim.”There is obviously a tinge of disappointment at not keeping the battle going for fourth place but maybe now we can throw the shackles off and try and win the last few games.”Image via SkySports