Paul Lambert hit all the right notes in his debut top-flight press conference for Villa ahead of the season opener at West Ham.

Lambert, addressing reporters before a competitive match for the first time, spoke passionately yet sensibly about his hopes for Villa this term.

The 42-year-old discussed his footballing philosophy concerning attacking principles while also sounding a note of caution about grandiose expectations.

Lambert impressed the assembled journalists with his positive and pleasant manner.

Talking some months ago, he admitted: "Maybe some people can see a 30-second interview and think I am the dourest person in the world. It does not bother me.

"Even in the dressing room as a player, I liked a laugh like the rest of them but I just knew when there was a time to work. It is the same now."

That mix was very much in evidence in the media briefing as he answered questions with clarity as well as having a laugh when the opportunity arose.

Looking to his right to answer a question asked of him by Sky's Pete Colley, he failed to spot a fellow reporter creep to the side of his desk to check the sound levels of his microphone.

Needless to say, the microphone was accidentally flung off the table.

Lambert laughed before looking at the reporter and joking: "Who are you? Where did you come from?"

When the same video journalist, some minutes later, started his line of questioning with 'Hi Paul, me again!' Lambert burst into fits of laughter at the guy's self-deprecation.

These moments didn't dominate the West Ham preview though, they lightened it and illustrated succinctly the charisma of Lambert as well as his quiet confidence ahead of the 2012-13 season.

Many others would be daunted by the challenge - and showing the strain. Not Lambert. He's looking forward to the competitive action to start.

Mat Kendrick, one of the reporters he faced at Bodymoor Heath before the team's trip to Upton Park, was thoroughly impressed with the gaffer's press performance.

"I thought the new manager found a good mix of conveying his passion, calming the expectations and also offering top humour.

"When Paul first arrived here there were fears he wouldn't be the most media-friendly man in the business. But I've been very impressed!

"There are other managers around who give their thoughts on absolutely everything. Now, there's no doubt Paul is one of the ones who's careful with what he says and doesn't give much away. But you also have to take into account that what he does tell us is from the heart and genuinely what he thinks.

"He talks passionately about playing good football and that's not just talk. He really means it.

"From the moment he came in here, he made it clear that was his desire, a good brand of football! That's music to the ears of Villa fans.

"I think Paul is too shrewd a man to give soundbites if he doesn't mean it. His plan to offer thrilling, winning football is clearly one he intends to deliver.

"There's an economy of words but what he does say goes a long way."

Lambert even joked in his press conference that the only reason fans chant 'give us a wave' is because the real competitive action hasn't started yet.

But it just goes to show the warmth and affection he's received since coming in.

Kendrick added: "There's a lot of love for him. His name is chanted by the masses and he's reacted in a modest but positive way. I think there'll be plenty of waves on Saturday!"

Let's hope he can barely lift his right arm when he walks off the pitch at Upton Park.

Click here to watch the full press conference with Lambert on AVTV.