Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert was delighted with Charles N'Zogbia's performance in their derby draw with West Bromwich Albion.

N'Zogbia set up both Villa goals - for Christian Benteke and Gabriel Agbonlahor - and caused constant problems to the Baggies back four.

Lambert said: "I thought Charles was excellent. That is what he has got in his make-up. There is no doubt that Charles is a real talent, a real, real talent.

"He goes past people as if they're not that at times. In the first half he was excellent. I would also like to see him shoot because he has the ability to do it."

It was a surprise when Lambert substituted N'Zogbia midway through the second period given the extent of his contribution.

But the Villa manager insisted: "I took Charles off because he has got a lot of games coming up. Remember that he's back from a long lay-off so you have to watch him. We have to protect him."