Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has called on the club's supporters not to protest against manager Alex McLeish this weekend.

The Villa fans are preparing to demonstrate their discontent with the Scottish boss before Manchester City's visit tomorrow.

While sections of the club's following have refused to accept McLeish, Given believes that protesting will not solve anything.

"Protesting does not help the club or the players," Given told talkSPORT. "People have to realise that Alex McLeish is a great manager and is passionate about doing well for Aston Villa.

"It's always easy to blame the manager but players have to stand up and be counted, look themselves in the mirror and put in good performances. Maybe some of them are feeling the pressure when playing at home but you've got step up, it's a big club.

"It's too easy to blame the manager, he doesn't cross the white line and as players we have to take responsibility."

McLeish made the controversial switch to Villa Park from arch rivals Birmingham City last year.