Premier League: Aston Villa chief Tom Fox backs Paul Lambert to turn around club's fortunes

Aston Villa chief executive Tom Fox has offered his support to under-fire manager Paul Lambert.

Villa started the season brightly but have won just two of their last 18 games while dropping to within three points of the Premier League's relegation zone.

A 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Bournemouth was welcome relief for Lambert and Fox claims the Scot continues to have the support of American owner Randy Lerner.

When things aren't going well, fans bay for that type of blood. That's not the way that I or the owner are going to make a decision. It's a false narrative.

Fox told the BBC: "When things aren't going well, fans bay for that type of blood. That's not the way that I or the owner are going to make a decision.

"I think football's a funny business and I think to put it all on the manager, again, that's a bit of a false narrative.

"There's a lot of things happening at this football club, and clearly what happens on the pitch is a focal point. Clearly the manager is the one person who can really influence that, so everyone focuses on it.              

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"Our focus for the last couple of months has been on making sure we support Paul to make us as successful as possible, and I think we're heading in the right direction."

Fabian Delph recently ended speculation about his future by signing a new four-and-a-half year deal and Villa are reported to be back in the running to sign Manchester City winger Scott Sinclair.

Lambert said last week any deal for Sinclair was dead but it is understood that the club have resumed talks with City over a possible move for the former Chelsea winger.

Watch Aston Villa's Premier League clash at Arsenal live on Sky Sports 1 HD on Sunday from 12.30pm.