Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has hailed the performances of keeper Brad Guzan last season.

The American was released by the Villans last summer but was then re-signed and eventually beat out Shay Given for the starting role at Villa Park.

Lambert told the club's official website: "I think Brad has been exceptional. He's been absolutely colossal for the football club.

"I wouldn't swap him. He's a really good guy as well, which is important. He is just a top-class goalkeeper. He has been really fantastic for us.

"His first game was up at Newcastle and he was excellent there. Since then, he has made some massive saves for us in big moments and he's been a credit to the club."

Former Villans stopper Brad Friedel revealed last week that he believes the keeper can become one of the best in the Premier League.