Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has thanked the "relentless" support from fans following Sunday's 1-1 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion.

Darren Bent came off the bench at Villa Park to score a late equaliser after Shane Long had put the Baggies ahead in the first Midlands derby of the season.

"The crowd were unbelievable in the way they kept with it. I am proud of them.

"This football club has been hurt for the past few years and we've come in to try and rectify really quickly.

"I can really sense the supporters want us to do well. They were relentless, they kept on going. I have nothing but admiration for everybody."

The Scot was also pleased with the fitness of his players following Tuesday's gruelling extra-time victory over Manchester City in the Capital One Cup.

"They were running on empty on Tuesday night. To come back like that in a derby game, I am absolutely delighted with the team," he added.

"They have been absolutely brilliant for me. I have nothing but pride in them."

Sunday's point has moved Villa up to 15th in the Premier League table.