Dean Smith has admitted that Jack Grealish is the best player he has ever worked with following the playmaker’s move to Manchester City.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, the Aston Villa manager revealed that his former captain is the best talent he has managed so far in his coaching career.
Grealish left his boyhood club five days ago in a Premier League record £100m transfer as reported by BBC Sport.
Villa have already worked on replacing Grealish with the signings of Emi Buendia, Leon Bailey and Danny Ings.
However, even with three quality additions, the void of their former star attacker will be felt throughout the upcoming season.
And for Smith, City star Grealish was the best player he is yet to coach in his managerial career.
The Villa boss said: “He’s a unique player and unique character, and I can honestly say he is the best player I’ve worked with.
“I’ve really enjoyed helping Jack develop into the person he is today. He will thrive playing at the highest level, he was born to do it.”
With Grealish starring for England at the Euros, there is no question that the former Villa star has what it takes to thrive for one of the biggest sides in the Premier League. Indeed, Smith will take some time to adjust for life after his former number 10.
However, with the ownership backing the club, Villa have the resources needed to successfully move on from Grealish in the near future.
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