Thursday 14 January 2016 15:30, UK
Remi Garde feels Joleon Lescott is a player he can "rely on" after the defender scored the goal that ended Aston Villa’s winless run.
Lescott's second-half header was spilled into his own net by Crystal Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey as Villa clinched a 1-0 win over Alan Pardew's side at Villa Park on Tuesday night.
It was Villa's first win since the 1-0 opening day success at Bournemouth and Garde's first victory as manager after 11 matches in charge.
Lescott was accused of playing a game involving chewing gum with goalkeeper Brad Guzan on the substitutes' bench during last Saturday's 1-1 FA Cup draw with League Two side Wycombe Wanderers.
The pair were given a mixed reception by the home supporters before the game with Palace - with Guzan on the bench - but Garde insisted Lescott is key to Villa's fight for Premier League survival.
"I didn't speak with Joleon about this stuff. I am pleased 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," the Villa manager said.
"Joleon is a very experience player, 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."
Despite the win, Villa remained bottom of the Premier League table, but are now just eight points off Swansea City in 17th place, although they have played a game more.
Garde says his players must remain grounded as they attempt to become only the fourth team in Premier League history to avoid the drop having been bottom at Christmas.
He added: "We have to stay very humble, it's only three points. We are far away from what we all want. Of course this victory could give us a little bit more confidence.
"I want to also insist on the way we played. The difference between Villa and Palace didn't reflect the table. I want my players to be more confident and hopefully that's what will happen."
