Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is pleased that his side have the ability to win even when not playing at their best.The result means they currently sit in fourth place in the Premiership table with a trip to face Newcastle at St James' Park after the weekend.
Monday's clash in the north east is the first of three in seven days and the boss feels that the Blackburn result means his side have the character to get through a hectic period in the campaign.
"We have three really important games coming up," he said. "I thought we did look a bit leggy against Blackburn on Wednesday.
"But we were never short of effort. Some of the passing was poor but to conjure a win from the way we played was a good sign for the future."
Punters looking to use a £10 free bet can back Villa to silence the Toon Army on Monday night when Joe Kinnear's men await the Villains.
O'Neill has made it clear that he will use his squad to the maximum to get through the next few days, which he sees vital as Villa look to break into the top four and qualify for the Champions League this term.
"I am very positive and upbeat about the future," he added. "But for the three games we are facing in quick succession there could be some sort of utilisation of the squad.
"Having these three games can work either way for the team. Basically speaking I see the next three games as very important for Villa."
