Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has warned Ron Vlaar that he is not a guaranteed starter for the team when he returns from a calf injury.

Vlaar, who has been repeatedly linked with a move away from Villa Park in recent months, is believed to be close to full fitness, but Lambert insists that he is happy with his current defensive options after Jores Okore and Ciaran Clark impressed in their teammate's absence.

"Do I need to get him back in? No. The two boys are playing really well," the Villa boss told reporters.

"If you play well you stay in the side. That's the advice you give any player.

"Ciaran and Jores have been absolutely excellent for us and have struck up a good understanding. They're in form and there's a good little partnership developing there."

Villa are back in action against Midlands rivals West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.