Mortimer’s backing Dean to get it right

FORMER Aston Villa captain Dennis Mortimer has urged supporters to get behind manager Dean Smith as he seeks to put an end to their worrying losing streak.

But the man who lifted the European Cup with the club in 1982 also warned Smith that the next four matches are huge games for his team – and his future.

Villa take on highflying West Ham at home this afternoon after losing to Tottenham, Wolves and Arsenal.

After the Hammers they have Southampton, Brighton and Crystal Palace.

And Mortimer, 69 (right) said: “Results mean everything and Dean Smith has to start getting them.

“The West Ham game is huge for him. Even a draw would be a good result – but he can’t afford to lose it.

“Southampton, Brighton and Palace are other vital opportunities for him to start picking up points.

“If they don’t win any games in this period, it won’t look good, for Dean or Villa.”

Smith has come under fire for tinkering with the formation and seemingly not knowing his best team, having spent the £100million received for Jack Grealish on new players.

“He has to get a system he wants to play firmly fixed in his mind and know the players that fit it,” Mortimer told the Daily Star Sunday.

“But I’m sure he will do that.

“People forget Dean’s been around a long time and has plenty of experience to handle tough times. Fans need to be careful making noises about changing the manager.”

Go to AV40tribute.com to see how the Aston Villa players from the early 1980s are celebrating the anniversaries of their League Championship and European Cup triumphs with various events and merchandise sales