Former Aston Villa defender Gareth Southgate has told manager Paul Lambert to stay positive as they battle to beat the drop.

Southgate understands the tricky task on Lambert's hands, having managed Middlesbrough when they were relegated in 2009, but he believes that if the Villa boss gets it right on the training field, they will avoid relegation.

"I've been in a similar situation and I've also been in the situation where I've got a very young side," said Southgate. "You've got to give those young players belief and you have to keep lifting people every week.

"It's not too often where there are people around to lift you, so I'm sure Paul is going through a very tough period, but one that is a great learning experience.

"He has had a couple of years at Norwich at the other end of the table that have been fantastic, but you learn more about things and yourself in times like this, which make you stronger for the future.

"How he picks up the players is key."