DON’T JUST LEAVE IT TO JACK

EXCLUSIVE

STEVE STAUNTON has warned Aston Villa they cannot rely on Jack Grealish alone to keep them in the Premier League.

The former Villa stalwart believes his former club’s fate lies in the hands of all of Dean Smith’s players – and not just their skipper. Grealish, 24, has led the push to safety ahead of a potential move to Manchester United.

And while he is recognised as pivotal, ex-Republic of Ireland boss Staunton says others stars need to stand tall. He said: “There’s no individual who is going to keep Villa up. Not Jack Grealish, nor John McGinn – it’s going to have to be a team effort. They will have to run through brick walls, run further than their opponents – and get a bit of luck along the way. “Working hard never goes out of fashion – and teams that get a bit of luck are those who work the hardest.

“They have nine games to go – it’s not that much. “Villa have to have the mindset that they will take care of their own business and not worry about anyone else. “The only result you can influence is your own. If you’re relying on others, you’re in trouble. “The other thing to consider is Villa Park.

“It has always been a tough place to win. It’s been no coincidence that they have won most of their points at home.

“Of course, there is a pressure that comes with playing in front of your own supporters.

“But being at home has been more of a help over the years rather than any hindrance.

“And there was that statistic in Germany on the restart where – for the first couple of weeks at least – the away teams all won.

“It might get into the players’ heads.

“But they just need to hit the ground running – and keep running.

“I think the question of who survives will come down to the side that has kept themselves in a decent shape.”

Staunton spent the overwhelming majority of his career winning honours – mainly at Liverpool but also at Villa where he won two League Cup medals.