Hangover from last season and Grealish loss – what went wrong for Dean Smith?

Dean Smith has left Aston Villa after three years.

Published Nov 8, 2021

Dean Smith was sacked by Aston Villa on Sunday after three years in charge.

Here, the PA news agency looks at why the club acted and what the factors behind the decision were.

Why now?

They have lost their last five matches but Villa’s results have been in decline during 2021 and the club decided to act. Villa have lost 19 of 38 games in all competitions this calendar year so it was not a decision just based on the last month.

Is it fair?

Smith guided Villa back to the Premier League (John Walton/PA)

How much did Jack Grealish’s transfer impact Smith’s chances?

Grealish’s exit was always likely, despite Villa’s best efforts to keep their home-grown captain. He was integral to any success on the pitch, highlighted by his £100million release clause which Manchester City eventually triggered. He missed three months towards the end of last season with a shin injury and Villa won just three games without him.

Did Villa replace Grealish effectively?

Southampton v Aston Villa – Premier League – St Mary’s — Emi Buendia became Aston Villa’s record buy. (Adam Davy/PA)