Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has revealed that he is optimistic over Ron Vlaar's latest injury.

The Villa captain, 28, has missed the team's last two games in the Premier League due to a calf strain.

Despite the defender spending two months on the sidelines with a similar problem last season, Lambert believes that the Dutchman will return to action sooner rather than later.

"I don't know how long Ron is going to be out," the Scot told the Birmingham Mail.

"It's hard to say, but it's not as bad as his last one was last year. Things are a lot more positive. I don't think it'll be months."

Villa return to Premier League action on Sunday when they play host to champions Manchester United.