Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has hinted that he may be given significant funds to spend when the transfer window re-opens in January.

The Scot was forced to deal on a modest budget in the summer after chairman Randy Lerner made public his intentions to sell the club at the end of last season.

However, Lambert has dismissed suggestions that he will have to look solely for loan deals and free transfers in the New Year.

The Birmingham Mail quotes the Villa manager as saying: "I've spoken to [Villa chief executive] Tom Fox about January.

"It all depends on personnel and injuries and ultimately the decision will come from the chairman and what he wants to do.

"But he's never once said to me 'you can't do x, y or z'. You put it to him and if he thinks it's fine, he will do it."

The Villans have made a positive start to their campaign and currently sit third in the Premier League.