Aston Villa boss Remi Garde was full of praise for match-winner Joleon Lescott following the 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace.

The 33-year-old defender, who scored the only goal of the Villa Park clash on Tuesday night, was at the receiving end of criticism after he was seen playing a game involving chewing gum with goalkeeper Brad Guzan on the substitutes bench during the 1-1 FA Cup draw with Wycombe Wanderers, which prompted a heated exchange with visiting supporters.

Lescott even received some boos from the Villa fans during the game against Palace but came up the hero to give the Midlands club their first Premier League win since opening day.

Garde claims that Lescott will be an important figure in Villa's fight against relegation as he spreads serenity and calm through the team.

"I didn't speak with Joleon about this stuff," he said of the negativity before the Palace fixture.

"I am pleased with the way he gave an answer but not an answer regarding this fact.

"He is an experienced player and should be very important for the team.

"He spreads serenity and calm. He knows the game and is a player I can rely on. He is not as young as he used to be, I try to manage him and others as best I can."