Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert admits some relief to have reached the 40 points barrier.

Villa's resurgence has justified Lambert's faith in youth, which was called into question earlier in the campaign as the team struggled for consistency. They were thrashed 5-0 by Manchester City, then humiliated 8-0 at Chelsea.

"It comes with a bit of time and belief, but first and foremost they are really talented footballers," said Lambert, whose side host the Blues next weekend and then travel to Wigan on the final day.

"They have took a lot of knocks on their season, but they are really good footballers who can play their game, and they are desperate to succeed, and they have been exceptional."