Former Norwich City and Aston Villa footballer Dion Dublin, with the Capital One Cup. Picture: Denise Bradley

Former Norwich City boss Paul Lambert can expect a mixed reception from visiting fans at Aston Villa on Saturday, according to ex-Canary star Dion Dublin.

Dublin, who played for both clubs, said most City supporters still appreciated what Lambert achieved in three years at Carrow Road with successive promotions and a mid-table Premier League finish.

He said: “I think the reaction will be mixed. But I do feel the majority will actually clap him and respect him for what he did for Norwich City. I think it will be great before the game. If Norwich lose, it will be rubbish after the game and they’ll give him a hard time. It’s the fans’ prerogative.”

Dublin backed Lambert to revive Villa’s fortunes despite a dismal start to the season with just five points from eight games.

He said: “They haven’t been good enough of late. They’re 17th in the league, having an absolute nightmare at the moment. It isn’t good enough for a club of Villa’s size. I think Paul Lambert will turn it round, though.

“I think he’ll do well. I don’t think Villa will be anywhere near relegation.”

Dublin rates Villa as favourites in Saturday’s televised game, but knows City are capable of following up their first league win of the season, over Arsenal, if Lambert’s men are not on song.

He said: “It is a crunch game and a game that Villa fans will be expecting them to win. That should be the expectation of a club of that size. You look at the fixture, Aston Villa v Norwich, that should be win for Aston Villa but it doesn’t work like that in the Premier League.

“If Villa turn up and he gets his team flying I think they’ll win the game at a canter. If they are just slightly below their best – and they have to be at their best to beat Norwich – I think Norwich will get a convincing win. I don’t think there is anything in between.”

Dion Dublin was speaking to David Cuffley on behalf of Capital One, the credit card company and sponsors of the League Cup. Visit facebook.com/capitaloneuk.