​Aston Villa manager Smith: Grealish presence gives us confidence | OneFootball

Aston Villa boss Dean Smith admits having Jack Grealish in the team gives everyone more confidence.

Villa were at their best against Tottenham in London, defeating the Europa League hopefuls 2-1.

Grealish managed 73 minutes in what was his first start for over three months, with Ollie Watkins netting the winner for Villa.

Smith said post-game, per the Express and Star: "You could see having Jack back gives everyone a lot of confidence. We created a number of chances.

"I think over the last couple of weeks he has been a little bit tentative compared to the normal Jack Grealish, which is understandable.

"Tonight I thought he exuded confidence. He looked assured. He wanted me to keep him on and I managed to get 12 minutes extra than the medical staff wanted. I have no doubts he will want to start against Chelsea on Sunday."