DEANO’S ALL PEPPED UP

DEAN SMITH believes Aston Villa’s January transfer window business will save his season.

Villa added four new faces to their squad and boss Smith thinks it could be key in a survival fight.

Only Norwich City are keeping the former European Champions from propping up the rest of the Premier League.

But Smith (above) insists the arrival of keeper Pepe Reina and striker Ally Samatta will prove pivotal.

He said: “Those two pieces of business could be key.

“They are two big parts of the picture, keeping it out of the net at one end and putting it in at the other.

“As long as Pepe wants to play, he will do. I’ve been really impressed by the person he is, firstly.

“Then, secondly, as a player. He’s very good with his feet. He knows how to keep the ball.

“And how to keep it out of the back of his net.

He’s got great charisma, personality and I’m really pleased we managed to get him in here.

“The experiences he has got, not just at Liverpool but with other clubs, can only help our dressing room.

“Even in small-sided games in training, if he’s on the losing side, he’s not a happy man.

That’s what I want to see – winners. And he’s certainly one.”

Samatta, meanwhile, was brought in from Belgian side Genk for £10million and Smith added: “Ally is a player that will run in behind. And that’s what scares defenders.

“He goes in behind. He scored a super goal at Wembley.

“It’s always a sign as to how well players have settled on the training ground.

“The others respect him.”