By Paul Brown in Chicago

Paul Lambert believes the confidence his team are gaining from winning games is getting "bigger and better."

Lambert watched on as his lions defeated Fire 1-0 in a competitive clash at Toyota Park.

And in his post-match interview, Lambert spoke of his pride at the efforts of his players in hot and humid conditions.

Lambert has been very happy with what he's seen in training over here in the USA and he's equally pleased with the winning mentality his team are gaining in games.

He said: "It was a really difficult game because of the heat again and against a team which is pretty decent. The crowd was up for it too.

"But I thought we played really well. I think the confidence we're getting from winning games is getting bigger and better. I am really happy with the way we played.

"I am delighted with everybody. Some of the football we played was excellent. We have only been with the lads for a fortnight.

"I am delighted with the team and the way they played and delighted with some of the aspects of the game.

"The lads have been brilliant overall. I have nothing but praise for them.

"The way they have been doing things in really difficult conditions has been great. It's another win away from home against a good side."

Lambert was also thrilled as Villa added another clean sheet to their pre-season stats.

Villa have now kept three shut-outs in three games and Lambert was happy with the latest defensive display.

He continued: "I was happy with the clean sheet because it breeds confidence with everybody.

"The lads were throwing their bodies in and defending really strongly. I am happy with how they're doing.

"If your goalkeeper is quiet it means your defenders are doing their jobs. I think that's important. It was Shay's first game since the Euros and he did really fine."

Lambert also confirmed that Gabby Agbonlahor [knee] and Darren Bent [thigh] both look set to be out for a fortnight.

Click here to buy season tickets for the new term as Villa embark on a vibrant new era.