Darren Bent has backed Aston Villa to be successful under the guidance of new manager Paul Lambert.

The Villains were engulfed in a relegation battle last season, with former boss Alex McLeish coming in for heavy criticism from the club's supporters and the media.

However, with Lambert now at the helm and a number of youngster coming through the ranks, centre-forward Bent expects his side to fulfil their potential during the upcoming campaign.

"We have some good youngsters coming through and this year is their chance to shine," said Bent. "With one or two additions [Lambert] brings in, it could be a really good year for us.

"Last season some of the youngsters had to come in and play five or six games straight off and they had never done that before.

"They are a season on now and know what to expect from the Premier League. This season they will really shine and I really think Villa is going places."

Bent will reportedly be fit to start pre-season training after making a recovery from ankle surgery.