Sunday 21 December 2014 08:07, UK
Paul Lambert says that Ashley Young told Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan he'd fouled Gabriel Agbonlahor.
Agbonlahor’s dismissal against Manchester United produced an angry reaction from his team-mates, with referee Lee Mason deeming his part in the 50/50 challenge was worthy of a red card.
But Lambert insists the decision was incorrect, telling Sky Sports: “(From) where I was standing it wasn’t a red card, no way, especially when Young went up to Guzan and said he’d (Young) made the foul on Gabby.
“But I’m proud of the team and how they played and how we are playing. With seven lads out it’s an achievement.”
The sending off looked to be leading to an inevitable three points for the visitors, but the hosts held on for a 1-1 draw and stifled any threat Manchester United brought to Guzan’s goal.
The performance pleased Lambert, who praised the side’s recent form having lost just once in seven games.
He said: “I thought we were excellent. Some of the football we played was excellent, we are playing with a lot of confidence, scored a wonder goal and were a threat.
“United came back and you expect that with the players they’ve got. They’ve done it in years gone by but it could have been us who won it at the end.”
The Scot, who has seen an up-turn in form after receiving criticism from the Villa faithful earlier in the season, said the home crowd spurred his side on.
He said: “It was brilliant, that’s what this place generates. You get this place right and it’s an incredible place to play football.
“Everyone knows where the club is at the minute but I’m delighted with the way we are playing at the moment.”
