Aston Villa captain Ron Vlaar has admitted that he is growing bored of the club's perennial relegation battle to remain in the Premier League.
The Villains beat Hull City 3-1 on Saturday to mathematically assure themselves of a place in England's top flight next season.
Likewise, Paul Lambert's men finished just five points above the relegation zone last season, while previous managers have also endured perilous campaigns at Villa Park in recent years.
"It's been the third or fourth year in a row, Aston Villa needs to be better in my opinion and we have to show it on the pitch," the Dutchman told Sky Sports News.
"We did it for the last month but it has to be over the whole season. We have to work really hard and I really believe we can do that.
"First start for us is we have to look to be a mid-table team and from there we can then look further forward."
Lambert's side sit 14th in the table ahead of their two remaining fixtures.
Shane Callaghan
