Championship Club Aston Villa FC. has confirmed Dean Smith as its new head coach with the legendary John Terry taking over as Assistant Coach.
The Club has also appointed Jesus Garcia Pitarch as Sporting Director.
In a statement on its official website, the club hailed Smith as a lifelong Villa fan known for his exciting and attractive brand of football which he implemented in his previous posts at both Brentford and Walsall.
READ ASTON VILLA’S OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF THE APPOINTMENTS BELOW:
Aston Villa Football Club is delighted to announce the appointments of Dean Smith as our new Head Coach, John Terry as Assistant Coach and Jesus Garcia Pitarch as Sporting Director.
Smith, a lifelong Villa fan, is known for his exciting and attractive brand of football which he implemented in his previous posts at both Brentford and Walsall.
Terry spent the final year of his illustrious playing career at Villa Park as he captained the club to the play-off final last season and brings a wealth of experience with him to his new role from his time as skipper of both Chelsea and England.
And Pitarch has occupied Director of Football roles at both Valencia and Atletico Madrid in his native Spain.
During his time at Valencia, the club won the La Liga title and UEFA Cup and Atletico lifted the Europa League and the European Super Cup during his tenure.
CEO Christian Purslow said: “These three appointments represent the start of a new era and direction at Aston Villa and we are delighted to secure their services after an extensive search.
“Dean has a clear and successful coaching philosophy as well as a real understanding of Aston Villa Football Club. He is also knowledgeable about the Championship.
“The board welcomes him to the club and is looking forward to working with him and his staff.
“John is one of the most decorated players in English football, has an affinity with the club and is ready to make the next step in his career working alongside Dean.
“And Jesus also brings a huge amount of experience in his particular role having worked with some of the biggest clubs in Europe. He will ensure the club has an integrated approach running from the academy through the U23s and into the first-team.”
Villa, relegated from the Premier League in 2016, reached the Championship play-off final in May, but they lost to Fulham and missed out on a return to the top flight, which would have been worth in excess of £160m to the club.
That defeat kick-started a summer of turmoil.
A poor start to the campaign and growing supporter unrest saw Steve Bruce depart.