Paul Lambert hoping to end 18-year Manchester United hoodoo

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has claimed that he is optimistic that his current crop of players can succeed where previous generations have failed and record a home victory against Manchester United.

United travel to Villa Park on Sunday knowing that history favours them in the West Midlands, with the reigning Premier League champions undefeated against the Birmingham-based outfit in 18 years.

Victory will see Lambert's men move level on points with the Red Devils tomorrow, and the Scot is confident that his charges will be more than a match for David Moyes's side tomorrow.

Speaking to reporters, he said: "We are at home. There will be a great atmosphere there and we have faith in the lads to go and get on the front foot.

"We know if we can do that, we will certainly be in the game, that is for sure."

Villa came close to ending the 18-year hoodoo last season, only to find their two-goal advantage negated by a brace from Javier Hernandez.