Aston Villa suspend Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa pending internal investigation

Villa also confirm they have promoted Shay Given and Gordon Cowans to assist manager Paul Lambert

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert remonstrates on the sideline in front of his coaching staff (Getty Images)

Aston Villa have suspended assistant manager Ian Culverhouse and head of football operations Gary Karsa pending an internal investigation, and have announced the temporary promotion of Gordon Cowans and Shay Given to the first team coaching staff.

A statement released by the club on Tuesday read: “The club can confirm that Gordon Cowans and Shay Given have been temporarily promoted to assist manager Paul Lambert and his first team coaching staff.

“The club can also confirm in response to media speculation that Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa have been suspended pending an internal investigation.”

Manager Paul Lambert said he was “delighted” with the appointment of Cowans and Given, and did not comment on why his regular coaches had been suspended.

Lambert said: “I'm delighted to have Gordon and Shay to assist me in preparing the team for Saturday which is what the whole group is focused on.”

Cowans, who made over 400 appearances during three spells with Villa, said: “The manager has asked me to step up to assist him at this time and I'll do my utmost for the Club and the manager in helping prepare the team for Saturday's game against Southampton.”

37-year-old Given, who was on loan with Championship side Middlesbrough until February this year, said he was “delighted” to be given a chance to help Lambert. The Republic of Ireland great has not made a single appearance for Villa this season.

"As players, it's important that each and every one of us take responsibility right now and I'm delighted to play my part in helping the manager and the team go and try to win on Saturday,” said Given.