Aston Villa suspend assistant manager

Aston Villa have suspended their assistant manager Ian Culverhouse, as well as the club's head of football operations Gary Karsa.

As yet, there has been no confirmation given behind the decision, which has resulted in Gordon Cowans and veteran goalkeeper Shay Given being promoted to assist manager Paul Lambert.

"The club can confirm that Gordon Cowans and Shay Given have been temporarily promoted to assist manager Paul Lambert and his first team coaching staff," read a statement on the club's official website.

"The club can also confirm in response to media speculation that Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa have been suspended pending an internal investigation."

Meanwhile, Given added: "As players, it's important that each and every one of us take responsibility right now and I'm delighted to play my part in helping the manager and the team go and try to win on Saturday."

Next up for Villa is a home clash with Southampton at the weekend.