Paul Lambert defends Christian Benteke form

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has backed striker Christian Benteke to come through his recent spell without a goal.

Benteke has not scored since returning from injury on October 20, but Lambert has supported the Belgian international's contribution to the team during his six-match goalless run.

The 44-year-old told reporters: "I don't have any concerns whatsoever. Even if he isn't scoring, he is still a handful.

"He'll come through it. I said to him that he won't come through every game where he is scoring every single goal.

"He'll be fine. I know what he is offering to the team, so I have no worries about it."

Benteke netted 23 times during his first campaign for Villa last season.