ASTON Villa manager Martin O'Neill admitted Blackburn Rovers were the better side in the second half after the Blues grabbed a 1-0 away win.

"I thought we played some good stuff in the first half and was hoping that we would take it on in the second half, O'Neill said.

"But Blackburn came out with a bit of renewed vigour and penned us back.

"Overall I think they probably had the better of the second half.

"It was a disappointing result, but I'm delighted we finished sixth.

"That was our aim this morning. I think we gave Hull a bit of help last year on the last day of the season, so I'm delighted they have reciprocated.

"I'm disappointed with the result, but not with the season or our position.

Reports have suggested Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez could be on his way out of Anfield this summer, with O'Neill touted as the leading candidate to succeed him.

O'Neill moved to dismiss the speculation surrounding his future last week by insisting that he wants to stay at Villa Park.

"Aston Villa is a remarkable club and there is not much more I can add to that,” he said.