Since his arrival at the club, Dean Smith has had a huge impact on the side as Aston Villa have won three of their last five games with the former Brentford manager at the helm. 

Recently, Villa put in their best performance of the season as they demolished promotion contender Derby and following that win, they now sit 11th in the table and have the playoff places well in their sights.

The next few weeks are going to be crucial for Smith’s side as they face Nottingham Forest, Middlesbrough, West Brom and Leeds following their huge derby against Birmingham City.

Ahead of the game, Smith could be without James Chester, John McGinn and Neil Taylor.

The Breakdown

Chester was forced off injured while on international duty with Wales and in his absence, Smith may well have to play Mile Jerdinak and Alan Hutton in the heart of his defence. Although Hutton has had a solid season, playing Jedinak at the back would be a terrifying alternative.

Moreover, in form John McGinn pulled out of the Scotland squad, and losing him could be a huge blow to Smith considering the midfielder’s incredible form of late.

Although Neil Taylor didn’t have the best of games against Derby and was replaced by Ahmed Elmohamaady, his injury puts even more strain on a side that is looking to put together a solid run of form.

In McGinn and Chester, Smith has lost two vital players ahead of the huge game against their city rivals.

Thoughts Villa fans?