Mikel Arteta has been speaking ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Aston Villa in the Premier League tomorrow, and he’s shared some praise for Dean Smith.
What’s the story?
Well, the Gunners boss clearly admires the £31,250-a-week Aston Villa man, as he showered him in praise.
As quoted by Football Daily, Arteta said: “I really like him, he is building a team and a club with different ambitions. Credit to him and he’s doing a really good job.”
We can’t disagree with the Spaniard whatsoever.
Ever since he replaced Steve Bruce in October 2018, the 50-year-old has done outstandingly well to guide the Villans back to the Premier League.
Smith oversaw a 10-game winning run in the Championship that season to turn Aston Villa’s fortunes around, and has since done a great job in the Premier League.
The ex-Brentford boss has also made some fine signings, bringing Ollie Watkins, Emiliano Martinez and Matty Cash to the Midlands, to name a few.
Has Dean Smith taken Aston Villa as far as he can?
At times this season, some Aston Villa supporters have quipped that Smith has done all he can at Villa Park.
The Villans have lost four of their eight Premier League games so far this season, and threw away a 2-0 lead against Wolves last time out.
However, we believe Smith still has plenty to offer, and is far from finished at Aston Villa.
The departure of Jack Grealish, who Smith chose as captain, was always going to rock the Villans.
It mustn’t be forgotten that Aston Villa also made a fair few signings, with the likes of Danny Ings, Emiliano Buendia and Leon Bailey yet to click.
Once the trio begin to gel, and play off Watkins, things should start to improve for Aston Villa – Smith certainly isn’t the problem.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
