Paul Lambert: 'I believe in my signings'

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has backed his new signings to shine at Villa Park this season.

Lambert has brought in defenders Ron Vlaar and Matthew Lowton, as well as defensive midfielder Karim El Ahmadi, so far this summer.

Although Lambert has admitted that none of his signings is a household name, he believes that he has seen the right characteristics in each of them to make them a success at the club.

"Aston Villa are a big club with a massive support. They expect to be successful and to be winning - and they are quite right to think like that. It's up to me to make that a reality and I will give it my best," Lambert told Scotland's Sunday Mail.

"But I have always said the game is about the players - and I'll never change my opinion. Ultimately, they win or lose games. It's as simple as that. I take great care about the type of player I sign. They have to have the right characteristics, be confident and must be able to fit in.

"I have inherited some good players and have added quality. The names of my new signings might not roll off the tongue but I believe in them. They know what we are trying to do here and think they'll be able to help."

Lambert's first league game in charge of Villa will come against West Ham United on August 18.