Dean Smith, 50, was fired as manager of Aston Villa after five consecutive Premier League defeats.
What did Purslow say about Dean Smith?
Smith, who was a supporter of the Villans as a child, led the club to be promoted back to the top echelon in 2018-19. Much has been expected in the current campaign, despite parting with Grealish in a record £ 100m deal, but Villa has slipped within two relegation points.
CEO Purslow told Aston Villa’s official website following the 1-0 defeat to Southampton that when Smith joined them in October 2018, their team was indeed struggling in the Championship. Dean Smith immediately transformed the atmosphere and performances and achieved the ultimate success of bringing Aston Villa back to the Premier League in the same season – a rare feat.
Smith then secured them a place in the Premier League after a tough campaign and led them to the cup final at Wembley. However, after a good start to last season, this year they have not seen the continuous improvement in the results, performances and league position they have all been looking for. For this reason, they decided to make changes now to give time for the new head coach to make an impact.
The Board would like to sincerely thank Smith for his many excellent achievements, on and off the pitch, during this time. According to Purslow, everyone knows how much Will means to Smith and his family. Dean Smith represented the club with distinction and dignity – loved and respected by everyone associated with Villa – their staff, players and supporters. they wish him all the best.
A little about Dean Smith
Over the three years with Aston Villa, Dean has curated 139 games. Dean Smith collected 55 wins, but also suffered 56 defeats. Villa announced that, with another international break, the search for a new manager has already begun. Dean is the fifth Premier League coach to lose his job this season, with Xisco Munoz, Steve Bruce, Nuno Espirito Santo and Daniel Farke already parted ways with Watford, Newcastle, Norwich and Tottenham, respectively.