Aston Villa chairman Randy Lerner has expressed his gratitude to manager Paul Lambert, as well as Shay Given and Gordon Cowans, who were appointed to the coaching staff yesterday afternoon.

The promotions were confirmed after assistant manager Ian Culverhouse and head of football operations Gary Karsa were suspended from duty, pending an internal investigation.

Speaking about the upheaval, Lerner told the club's official website: "Our manager has been faced with some unexpected issues that could have very easily set the club back.

"In watching him handle matters, along with our chief executive, I've seen total loyalty and commitment to Aston Villa while Gordon, a Villa man through and through, has repeatedly stepped up to support the club regardless of the ask.

"Shay, too, has been unhesitating in answering the manager's call. I couldn't ask for more from people who are up for this challenge and the very real obstacles we have to overcome, as is everyone at the club."

Next up for Villa is a home encounter against Southampton on Saturday afternoon.