Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has praised Alan Hutton for working his way back into the team following Saturday's draw with Newcastle United.

The Scotland international had spent the past two years out of favour at Villa Park, but two starts already this season have seen him back in the fold.

Hutton's rejuvenation for the Villans continued yesterday with an impressive performance during the team's 0-0 stalemate with the Magpies in the Premier League.

"Hutton was excellent all game, which is great for ourselves and for Alan," Lambert is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "And it's great for the national team. He's in excellent form at the minute."

Villa are back in action on Wednesday night when they host Leyton Orient in the second round of the League Cup.