Alex McLeish targets 40 points for safety

Alex McLeish has claimed that Aston Villa must reach the 40-point mark to ensure that they are safe from relegation.

Villa have only collected five points from their last six games and McLeish is worried about being dragged into a battle for Premier League safety.

The former Birmingham boss said: "I don't think I have ever not been worried this season.

"We have to look to get to at least 40 points. That is the target I'd be giving to the players and get to that target as quickly as possible.

"I am a deep thinker about things. I am concentrating on winning enough games to make sure Villa is OK."

McLeish's side are currently lying in 15th position in the Premier League table.