Lambert closing the door on Jean Makoun

Jean Makoun's Villa career appears to be over today after boss Paul Lambert indicated the midfielder is not part of his plans.

The Cameroon international has been unable to return to the UK because of complications over his work permit which is believed to be related to his inability to pass an English language test.

And when asked about the 29-year-old at a fans forum last night Lambert said he "had not got a clue what he (Makoun) looks like" and that he would "need a sat nav" to find him.

Lambert also said that he wanted players "who will contribute" and it seems that Makoun is not among them. He was initially handed the number 17 shirt by Villa during pre-season but his profile on the club's website now has him without a squad number.

French club Rennes are understood to be ready to make a cut-price offer for the player who spent the majority of last season on loan at Greek side Olympiacos. Makoun was signed by former Villa boss Gerard Houllier from Lyon for around £6m in January 2011 but despite a bright start to his career only made 11 appearances for the claret and blues.

Meanwhile, defender Matthew Lowton has declared himself fit for Villa's Premier League opener against West Ham after he sat out the final match of pre-season against Werder Bremen with a slight ankle injury.

Lowton said: "I just took a knock in training on Friday so the manager just said as a precaution to sit that one out. But I'm back in training now so everything's fine. It was ankle and it just had a bit of swelling on it, but I just sat it out so it didn't get any worse.

"I'm definitely excited ahead of Saturday and it will be great, if selected.

"I've been to the ticket office to sort all the tickets out. My family ever since I've started playing have always come to watch me play so it will be nice for them too to hopefully see me make my debut."