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Randy Lerner backs Paul Lambert after assistants banished

Randy Lerner today broke his Villa silence and threw his support behind beleaguered boss Paul Lambert.

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The claret and blues' owner has moved to back Lambert after the suspension of Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa.

Assistant manager Culverhouse and head of football operations Karsa are the subject of an internal investigation after being stood down yesterday.

It is understood Lambert's relationship with Culverhouse has broken down leading to problems at the club.

But chairman Lerner has praised Lambert's handling of the situation and thanked club legend Gordon Cowans and keeper Shay Given for stepping up to replace the suspended duo.

"Our manager has been faced with some unexpected issues that could have very easily set the club back," he said.

"In watching him handle matters, along with our chief executive, I've seen total loyalty and commitment to Aston Villa while Gordon, a Villa man through and through, has repeatedly stepped up to support the club regardless of the ask.

"Shay, too, has been unhesitating in answering the manager's call. I couldn't ask for more from people who are up for this challenge and the very real obstacles we have to overcome, as is everyone at the club."

Chairman Lerner has come under increasing pressure during another season of struggle at Villa which has left them four points above the Premier League relegation zone.

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