Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has held crisis talks with his squad.

Villa have not tasted victory since December 15 - when they beat Liverpool 3-1 at Anfield - and are now second from bottom.

Lambert said: "We had a chat the other day - they know what they have to do.

"We're in a fight and it's horrible but winning covers a multitude of sins. If you play poor and win, you'd take that.

"I know we're in the entertainment business but sometimes that doesn't get you anywhere.

"The effort of the players is there in abundance. We all believe they can do it."