Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert was surprised to learn of Martin O'Neill's sacking by Sunderland.

Villa were being beaten by Liverpool as the axe came down on O'Neill.

"I only found out late on Saturday night and I was shocked like everyone else at what happened," said Lambert.

"Nobody is safe. I was privileged to work with him for five years. It was fantastic.

"If you make that change, I am not so sure... If you think somebody is just going to be appointed pretty quickly there at this stage of the season..."