O'Leary took the reins at Aston Villa in May 2003

Villa are fifth from bottom in the Premiership and some supporters want O'Leary removed from his managerial post after three years at the helm.

But O'Leary insisted: "This season has been disappointing and that is what makes me more determined in the summer to put it right.

"I will put it right because I know how to put it right."

My playing and managerial record is all about being at the top of the league David O'Leary

O'Leary is convinced he can revitalise the Midlands club - if he is given financial backing to bring in quality players alongside the crop of promising youngsters at his disposal.

But the next two matches - home derbies with the relegation-threatened duo of West Brom and Birmingham - may prove to be crucial to his hopes of remaining as boss of Villa.

"My playing and managerial record is all about being at the top of the league, we are fifth from bottom - and I don't like that," added the former Leeds manager. "It leaves a bad taste.

"I came into this season wanting a good season at the other end of the table where I belong, where I have been and where I want this club to be.

"This year we have fallen below the standards of the past two seasons, when we finished in the top 10, for various reasons that I can't go into. Everyone is frustrated."

O'Leary is targeting a "big James Beattie-type of centre-forward" as well as strengthening the heart of his defence.