After what could only feel like a fairy tale for all involved, Dean Smiths tenure as Villa boss is finally over.
Villa Players Post Social Media Farewells to Dean Smith
He took over the Villans whilst they were struggling in the bottom half of the Championship in 15th place. By the end of the season, Villa we’re back in the Premier League, embarking on an incredible 10 game winning streak to secure the play-offs.
The next season saw a difficult, but necessary season of struggle to keep Villa in the Premier Leauge. Again, he succeeded.
Next up was solidifying his clubs place in the Premier League. Again, after miraculously looking like they were pushing for the Europa League spots, they tailed off at the end of the season and finished in an again improved 11th, only 10 points off of West Ham in 6th.
This season, despite the departure of Grealish, there was reason for optimism around Villa Park. The signings of Ings, Buendia, Bailey and the returns of Ashley Young and Axel Tuanzebe all sparked reason for hope. However, after a slow start and 5 consecutive losses, Villa have ended the fairy tale.
The players all seemed to really take to Smith whilst at Villa, and he made a noticeable improvement to every player he coach, it’s no surprise to see the players express their thanks to Smith on Social Media.
You brought me to this great football club, I will forever be grateful, Thank you for everything gaffa 💜💜 https://t.co/b1DEN3D53x
— Matty Cash (@mattycash622) November 7, 2021
The Gaffer and I have enjoyed some great times together and for that I’ll be eternally grateful. In the Gaffer and Shakey, the club lose two great men who gave everything for this club & I certainly wish them both well in everything they go on to do. Thank you 💜 https://t.co/yItx7XkXMs
— Tyrone Mings (@TyroneMings) November 7, 2021
Been an absolute pleasure, thank you for everything! 🐐❤️❤️❤️ https://t.co/lOPoI007QQ
— Ezri Konsa (@EzriKonsa) November 7, 2021
Fans, the photos I posted and deleted have nothing to do with Dean Smith situation, he's a guy who made me grow a lot and I'm extremely grateful for everything he's done for me!
when I saw that you misinterpreted the first thing I did was delete the photos— Douglas Luiz (@dgoficial) November 7, 2021
Hard to find the right words to sum up what the gaffer has done for the club and me personally the last few years. A top coach and an even better guy. Thanks gaffer and good luck! 💜 pic.twitter.com/VEYFY052iE
— John McGinn (@jmcginn7) November 8, 2021
Thank you for everything gaffer. It was a pleasure working with you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/p5qLYnIUr0
— Marvelous Nakamba (@Nakamba_11) November 8, 2021
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to play for this club, Dean. It was a short period working together but I know you are a great manager and really good person. I want to wish you all the best in the future 💜 https://t.co/GP99q4rBJd
— Emiliano Buendia (@EM10Buendia) November 8, 2021
Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter @FootballOTH and @OTHeroics for all your sporting needs! Come discuss this and much more!
Main image credits- Embed from Getty Images