Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has admitted that it was disappointing to hear supporters target Tom Cleverley in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea.

Despite starting 20 Premier League games since joining Villa on loan from Manchester United last summer, Cleverley has struggled to avoid criticism from some fans for his apparent poor form.

Ironic cheers greeted the decision to take Cleverley off in the latter stages of the loss to Chelsea on Saturday, but Lambert insists that he is happy with the midfielder's contribution.

"It is not nice to hear," Lambert told reporters. "Tom is one of these guys who never hides from the ball.

"I never criticise anybody for looking for the ball if they make a mistake. He gives it everything he has got, everything to try and do well. He wants to do well here and sometimes he may be trying too hard which can go against you.

"He keeps on going with the ball and that is a big testament for him that he keeps doing it."

Villa return to action against Hull City on Tuesday evening.