Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has insisted that his side were worthy winners against Stoke City this afternoon.

Having been pegged back late in the contest, goals from Matthew Lowton and Christian Benteke sealed a 3-1 victory for Lambert's men at the Britannia Stadium.

Reflecting on the result and performance, the Scottish manager was full of praise for his players.

"It was thoroughly deserved. We looked terrific from the off. I thought we defended really strongly and football-wise I thought we were excellent. Every time we went forward I thought we looked threatening," he told BBC Sport.

Lambert also reserved a special word for Lowton, whose goal from distance put Villa back in front with three minutes left to play.

"I don't think you will see a better goal in Europe let alone anywhere else than Matt Lowton's," he added.

"The technique, chest control and volley was outstanding. He has played every minute of every game in the league and he has been outstanding."

The win has lifted Villa up to 16th in the Premier League standings.