Paul Lambert: Defenders were "excellent" in Southampton draw

Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has hailed the performances of his defenders in his side's 1-1 draw against Southampton at Villa Park.

Villa were under pressure for the majority of the game due to the Saints' dominance of possession, but their backline held firm until the 81st minute when Nathaniel Clyne earned Ronald Koeman's men a point.

Lambert told reporters: "I thought Alan Hutton was excellent in his first game in a month. I thought the two young centre-backs were outstanding, I really did. I thought they were excellent.

"Jores Okore hasn't played for 14 months. And he was outstanding. Ciaran Clark took the lead and helped him. I thought Ciaran was excellent.

"We had two young guys at the heart of our defence. Ciaran has been in and out of the side but never lets you down every time he plays. Jores was outstanding."

Lambert's side are 16th in the Premier League following the result.