Villa appoint Smith and Terry

Aston Villa have appointed Dean Smith as their head coach, with former defender John Terry agreeing to join as his assistant.

Smith was confirmed in the role by Villa last night after the Championship club agreed a compensation deal with Brentford.

Villa sacked Steve Bruce last week after a poor run of results and have conducted a thorough process in search of a replacement, with Thierry Henry also understood to have been a contender.

But Smith, a lifelong supporter of the club, has always been high on Villa’s list and negotiations progressed smoothly yesterday.

Smith, 47, has established an excellent reputation operating at this level as an innovative coach, introducing an attractive style of football at Brentford.

It is understood compensation is around the £300,000 mark.

Terry, meanwhile, will make a popular return as Smith’s No2 after announcing his decision to retire as a player over the weekend. The 37-year-old was captain of Villa last season and played in the play-off final defeat to Fulham, which was his final game as a professional.

Villa have also appointed Jesus Garcia Pitarch, the former Atletico Madrid and Valencia director, as their new sporting director.

Christian Purslow, the club’s chief executive, said: “These appointments represent the start of a

Striking a deal: Aston Villa agreed to pay Brentford compensation for Dean Smith 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 the club. He is also knowledgeable about the Championship. John is ready to make the next step in his career working alongside Dean.”