Brett Holman: 'Criticism has helped us'

Aston Villa midfielder Brett Holman believes that criticism from inside the club has aided their recent upturn in form.

The 28-year-old, who joined Villa from AZ Alkmaar this summer, also admitted that there is a difference in 'culture' between England and Holland.

"In England, what I've seen a lot is that everybody's willing to have a go at each other. Whereas in Holland it's not really accepted and it's frowned upon when people have a go," he told the Birmingham Mail.

"Here people are trying to have a go at you but they're trying to help you as well and that's what I see a lot and that helps. I think in England it's more accepted, whereas in Holland people would feel more criticised and feel like they were virtually getting picked on."

Villa face Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.