Aston Villa have announced the appointment of Dean Smith as new Coach, John Terry as assistant Coach and Jesus Garcia Pitarch as Sporting Director.

Villa’s options over a new coach reduced after Thierry Henry and Rui Faria rejected offers by the club, paving the way for Smith to take over at the club.

Smith is known for his introduction of an attractive style of football at Brentford since he joined the club in 2015.

It is understood Aston Villa paid around £300,000 as compensation and Smith is now tasked to replace Steve Bruce.Terry had also been linked with become head coach of the club after his recent retirement from football.

But Terry has now opted to take his first steps into coaching as Smith’s assistant, after the latter walked away from Brentford.

CEO Christian Purslow said: “These three appointments represent the start of a new era and direction at Aston Villa and we are delighted to secure their servicesafter an extensive search.

“Dean has a clear and successful coaching philosophy as well as a real understanding of Aston Villa Football Club. He is also knowledgeable about the Championship.

“The board welcomes him to the club and islooking forward to working with him and hisstaff.

“John is one of the most decorated players in English football, has an affinitywith the club and is ready to make the next step in his career working alongside Dean.

“And Jesus also brings a huge amount of experience in his particular role having worked with some of the biggest clubs in Europe. He will ensure the club has an integrated approach running from the academy through the U23s and into the first-team.

”We are delighted to announce the appointments of Dean Smith as our new Head Coach, John Terry as Assistant Coach and Jesus Garcia Pitarch as Sporting Director — Aston Villa FC
October 10, 2018

Smith’s first match in charge will be at the Villa park whey they face Swansea on Saturday, October 20.

Villa sit 15th in the table with 15 points from their opening 12 matches.