Wesley has scored just two goals in the Premier League for Aston Villa so far.
Wesley became Villa’s record signing over the summer, but he has been inconsistent in his first few showings in English football.
The Brazilian forward has shown glimpses of promise, with his performance against Everton particularly impressive.
But there have been other occasions when Wesley has been too easily outmuscled and only had a limited impact.
Villa drew 2-2 with Burnley last weekend, but Smith felt that the 22-year-old forward didn’t make enough of an impression on the match.
And the Villa boss says that Keinan Davis is now really pushing to take Wesley’s place.
“Keinan is getting better and better. I spoke to Wesley. I didn’t think it was Wes’s best game on Saturday, and he would be the first to admit that. He certainly did to myself,” Smith said.
“He knows Keinan is pushing him. They’re two young lads, there’s only months between them. Unfortunately one is carrying a big price-tag on his head.”
Wesley has scored just twice in Villa’s seven Premier League matches so far this season.
Smith’s side need Wesley to come good, as they have had a difficult start back in the top tier.
Villa are currently in 18th place in the Premier League table, having taken just five points from their first seven games.
The claret and blues are next in action against fellow newly promoted side Norwich City on Saturday.
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