Lambert bemoans Aston Villa’s dreadful second-half showing in Arsenal defeat

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert bemoaned his side’s dreadful second half showing as the Villans’ recent poor form continued with a resounding 5-0 defeat at Arsenal.

Villa’s defeat means Lambert’s outfit have gone eight league games without a win and have failed to register a goal for over ten hours of Premier League football.

Lambert felt his side gave a good account of themselves in the first 60 minutes of the encounter but Arsenal’s second goal, through Mesut Ozil, completely changed the game’s dynamic.

Lambert said: “We started the second half really well but the second goal was the most disappointing thing about today.

“What has annoyed me probably the most is the acceptance to then lose by a few more.”

Despite the crushing defeat which leaves the Midlands side just three points above the relegation zone, the Villa manager reiterated his belief that he is the best man to alleviate their current predicament.

“I don’t worry [about pressure],” added Lambert. "What happens happens. It’s a brilliant football club with a great set of supporters and we’ve got to give them something back really quickly because they need it.

“I’m used to winning games; that is the way my football and managerial career has panned out.”

Villa’s failure to score at the Emirates meant they have managed just 11 goals in the Premier League this season, with main striker Christian Benteke again looking off the pace.

“We’ll try to bring in players to rectify the problems we have upfront. That’s why I bought in Carles Gil who I thought was excellent and is getting better with every game,” said Lambert.

Villa face a crucial few weeks in their battle for survival with fixtures against relegation rivals Hull City and Leicester over the next fortnight.