Southampton midfielder Steven Davis says Aston Villa must stick with manager Paul Lambert.

He came through Villa's set-up and believes boss Paul Lambert will be rewarded for playing so many kids, provided he is given enough time.

Davis, 28, said: "When I started here there were a few old heads in the team. But it was quite a good blend of experienced players and youth.

"Experienced players help, there's no doubt about it.

"They have a few players that have been out through injury like Darren Bent, Ron Vlaar and Gabby Agbonlahor. The three of them will be big players between now and the end of the season.

"But I don't think there's any call for Paul Lambert's head.

"He's put his plan in place and they're trying to develop the team the way he sees fit - he needs time to do that.

"It's good to see young players getting their chance. Villa have been renowned for it now for a number of years.

"They're getting their chance and the experience from this will benefit them throughout the course of their career."