Randy Lerner has given his public backing to Paul Lambert as pressure intensifies on the Aston Villa boss.
Two cup exits to lower division outfits in the space of a week has turned tomorrow’s clash with Newcastle into car crash viewing.
Both clubs are plunging towards the relegation zone although Alan Pardew has been able to bring in a number of French signings despite missing out on Stephane Mahe.
Lambert has placed his faith in youth rather than spend big in the transfer market with Lerner dictating club policy after the high spending days under Martin O’Neill.
“In the time I’ve come to know Paul, what is clear is his strength of character and belief in his approach to football,” Lerner said.
“Fortunes can shift quickly in this game and a sense that one has it right can become grave doubt in a matter of a few games.”
Until a disastrous spell of three defeats shipping in 15 goals without reply over Christmas Lambert seemed untouchable as Villa boss.
The reality of being relegated ahead of the new lucrative television deal has concentrated minds like never before on the drop zone with Lambert facing up to the toughest test of his career.
“There’s no chance I’d walk away from it,” the Villa boss stated. “You have to fight like anything to get up. You pick yourself up – there’s no point in lying down and accepting it.
“I’ve never had a run like this as a manager or been hit from pillar to post like this. It’s an experience you take on board and you use it.
“You can’t have everything going your way in your managerial career every single time. You have to take the rough with the smooth and when the rough comes you take it.”
CLICK HERE for Lenon drops transfer hint
Follow Video Celts on Twitter and Facebook
Sink or swim for Villa, unfortunately unless they offload some of the high earning players they won’t be able to bring in some replacements. Meanwhile other strugglers like QPR are throwing money around like confetti. Huge game coming up for Villa v Norwich in a couple of weeks, Norwich in freefall but trying to strenghten.
Massive task for Lambert to keep this side up, I think it’s asking too much, besides which next season will simply be same again. A step back to try & take 2 steps forward – but a mistake taking such a job surely knowing there was no funds and massive cuts to be made.