only scored in 7 of the next 21 games

Villa are second in the table and are one of three clubs unbeaten in the top-flight after four games along with leaders Chelsea and Arsenal, who visit Villa Park on Saturday.

"I knew the first two years would be tough but we've made progress and now we're beginning to see the benefits of all of that hard work," added Lambert.

"We're in a much healthier position on and off the pitch.
"The bar had to be raised, everyone has stepped up and there will be continued improvement."

Villa chief executive Tom Fox said: "We have a long-term vision for Villa.

"Paul is completely integrated into our plan to manage the club carefully and ambitiously back to a position in the Premier League appropriate to our history and collective expectations."

Posted By: SCC 28, Feb 11, 21:20:41