Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has insisted that striker Christian Benteke does not deserve to be criticised for his lack of goals in recent weeks.

Benteke hasn't netted since his return from injury last month, but Lambert has revealed that he has no worries about the Belgium's form in front of goal.

The 44-year-old told reporters: "People have to remember that Christian is still a young guy, still learning, and he has only just come back from injury.

"He's had chances against Everton and West Ham, so you can't label anything against him.

"I'd be more worried if he wasn't getting chances, but the thing is that he is getting them, so I've no worries about him whatsoever."

Benteke is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup against Cardiff City on Saturday.

Written by
Darren Plant