Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has insisted that Christian Benteke's decision to stay at the club is a "huge bonus".

The Belgian striker, who recently submitted a transfer request, has decided to pen a new deal following talks with the Villa boss.

"I had a full and frank discussion with Christian Benteke on his return to training this week regarding his future," Lambert told the club's official website. "It is my opinion that the best thing for Christian is to remain at Aston Villa.

"He enjoyed a terrific first season at the club and can use that as a platform to hopefully enjoy more success this season. I'm delighted, having time to re-evaluate his future, Christian has decided to commit to the club. It's a huge bonus and I'm sure the supporters are every bit as delighted as me to have him on board and raring to go."

Benteke's contract will now run until 2017.