Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has praised Grant Holt for his performance and goal in the 2-1 defeat to Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

Despite failing to claim anything from the game, Lambert was eager to focus on his striker, who was given the opportunity to start in attack due to Christian Benteke's injury.

"It was a really open game, with chances at both ends, but it was disappointing to lose," the Scot told BBC Sport.

"There are a lot of games left and you look to see who's playing who. A lot of teams are in the same situation as ourselves.

"I thought Grant Holt was excellent. He led the line great for us and produced a terrific header for the goal."

The loss leaves Villa 13th in the Premier League.