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The Dutchman's agent claimed recently, 'The ball was in Villa's court' when it comes to starting negotiations on a new deal.

But Lambert disputes that view, and claims efforts to speak with Vlaar - who will be a free agent next summer - have been snubbed by his advisor.

The Villa Park chief said: "The indication we got from the agent was, 'Thanks but no thanks'.

"He should look back at what he said earlier and he shouldn't wash his dirty linen in public.

"I'm not blaming Ron in any way, shape or form. Ron's been great and we've a good dialogue. But I'm not having Aston Villa take the blame for this."

With seven months left on his existing deal, Vlaar, 29, is a target for Manchester United and Southampton.

But Villa will not sell their skipper in the January window even if he can quit for nothing in June. Lambo said: "I'd love to keep him."