Lambert determined to keep Benteke

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert says he will not consider selling his star striker Christian Benteke in the January transfer window.

The former Genk striker has registered around a goal every two games for both club and country over the last two seasons, including nine goals from 18 appearances so far this campaign.

Benteke has ousted Darren Bent from the Villa first team, featuring in 14 games since moving to the club in the off-season.

“Christian has been excellent for us,” Lambert told Sky Sports.

“He is a big, strong lad but he can also play.

“If he keeps progressing the way he has so far, he will be an incredible player. I have to hold onto Benteke. He’s going nowhere.”

Lambert claimed although Benteke has hit the ground running, he still has lots to learn, and called on the player to continue working hard.

“I have run out of things to say about Christian,” he said.

“He is not the finished article but he has been excellent for us and a fans’ favourite.

“You have to be a good player to get into the current Belgium side and he has scored plenty of goals for them already.

“He might not peak for a few years yet. He’s only 21 and can be anything he wants.”