Lambert: Young Is Not A Diver

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert believes Manchester United winger Ashley Young does not dive intentionally.

Young, who traded Villa Park for Old Trafford in the summer of 2011, has been accused of diving on several occasions over the past few years, and spoke out about the issue this week.

The 28-year-old England international was unapologetic, saying: "The referees are giving decisions and that is where I think it lies."

And, giving his thoughts on the issue ahead of Villa's home Barclays Premier League clash with United on Sunday, Lambert - who arrived at Villa a year after Young's departure - said: "I don't think he actually dives intentionally, trying to throw himself around.

"I don't know Ashley Young at all, but I wouldn't say he is one of these lads who just goes out and tries to dive.

"He tries to do good things on the football pitch and sometimes you get caught - sometimes players move that quick and the slightest nick can take you over, and then it is up to the referee to call it the way he sees it.

"I don't see him as being a diving-type player. Maybe some decisions have been highlighted because the incidents have involved him."