Dean Smith aiming for winning return to Villa as Norwich aim to avoid relegation

Dean Smith is determined to make a first return to Aston Vila since his dismissal a memorable one as Norwich aim to avoid being relegated from the Premier League.

Boyhood Villa fan Smith had taken the club back to the top flight in 2019, going on to retain their status and also reach the Carabao Cup final.

However, Smith was sacked after three years in charge during November 2021, with the club 16th on the back of five straight defeats.

Following his departure, Smith – who saw captain Jack Grealish sold to Manchester City for £100million, but also spent big on the likes of Southampton striker Danny Ings and Norwich playmaker Emi Buendia – maintained he had no regrets, feeling he would have ended Villa’s slump with more time.

Smith was not out of the game long, as he made a swift return to the dugout when appointed as the new head coach at Carrow Road to replace Daniel Farke.

Norwich, though, sit bottom of the table, now 10 points from safety following last weekend’s 3-0 home defeat by Newcastle and could be relegated back to the Sky Bet Championship if results go against them.

The 51-year-old is hoping for a warm reception from the Villa faithful, but to leave them disappointed come the full-time whistle.

“I am looking forward to it. I had some great memories of being there as a boy supporting the club, and also managing the club, getting promoted and to a cup final as well as record winning run,” Smith said.

“Hopefully (the reception will be) a good one. I thought my relationship with the supporters there was really good, but I have had to move on now.

“I made my statement when I left the football club and I have moved on from there and am happy to be at Norwich now.

“There is always something a bit extra special when