N'Zogbia out to impress Lambert

18 October 2012 10:51

Charles N'Zogbia knows he must work hard to impress Paul Lambert, admitting reputations count for nothing with the Aston Villa manager.

N'Zogbia and £24million record signing Darren Bent were not included in Lambert's starting line-ups for the last two games against Tottenham and West Brom.

The 26-year-old winger, who has struggled to impress at Villa Park since arriving from Wigan in summer 2011, says form and fitness are the only factors on which the manager bases his team selection.

"It's not about money, how many games you've played or international appearances," N'Zogbia told the Daily Star. "If he thinks you are not good or fit enough to play at the time, you have to stick to it and work harder. "It keeps you on your toes and it is good to have a manager like this." N'Zogbia has backed team-mate Bent to force his way back into Lambert's side despite his recent snub. "The manager will decide," added the France international.

"What Darren has to do when he plays is to show a reaction. "Darren Bent is a fighter, so this will not be a problem for him." "Maybe he'll miss the odd game and be on the bench but when he starts playing, he's going to score."

Source: team_talk