WEST Name BROMv Name ASTON VILLA EL GHAZI AIMS FOR NET THAT MATTERS
The Hawthorns: Tomorrow, 7.15pm
DEAN SMITH is backing Anwar El Ghazi to come up trumps in front of goal – as he’s become stronger after ditching social media.
The Dutch forward missed a hatful of chances against Burnley on Thursday, days after being hailed a hero following his injury-time penalty winner in the derby at Wolves.
El Ghazi (above) could be sweating on his is place ahead of the e West Brom trip tomorrow, with Trezeguet in line to replace him.
But Villa boss Smith (right) says s the character shown own by the former Ajax man demonstrates he will not let any wastefulness in front of goal bother him.
Smith said: “Anwar got some stick after a game against Stoke and he decided to leave social media. I’m glad he did, because he’s looked a stronger person.
“And coming on to score the penalty against Wolves shows that strength as he won the game for us.
“It’s an individual thing. Some people need to read the critique they get or the praise they get. Some can handle things without that. It’s also there for people to criticise. Anything can be critiqued on there.
“If that’s going to be of any harm to you or your mental welfare, then keep off it is my opinion – or block accounts of people you don’t want to hear from. But unfortunately, it’s part of the world we live in now.” Club-mate Tyrone Mings – with whom El Ghazi ha had an on-field b bust-up last season – did take to social media, however, c calling on those who wh slated the 25-y 25-year-old to apologise after he bagged the winner at Molineux.
Smith added: “Social media platforms are a way of life for the modern player now.
“I’m from a different generation, so I don’t use it anywhere near as much as the players do.
“A Premier League player now understands that if he wants to get a point across, he can.
“But they have to be mindful of their responsibilities and that they are employees of Aston Villa FC.