Dean Smith got off to the perfect start as Aston Villa manager with a convincing 1-0 win over Swansea City at the weekend.

Tammy Abraham's early header proved enough to earn Villa all three points, however on another day, the Chelsea loanee could have easily netted a hat-trick.

Nevertheless, it was a win, and a win that the Villa Park faithful were crying out for after having won just one game out of their last ten outings before the clash with the Swans.

The Villans will be hoping that they can continue where they left off, with a tough away trip to Norwich City on Tuesday night - with Smith's men sitting in 13th in the table after thirteen games.

The January transfer window will be a hugely important month for Smith - who will need to strengthen his squad in order to prepare for a promotion push.

Anything can happen in January, and here, we take a look at two transfer developments that Smith will be praying do not happen in January....

Villa have recently been linked with the signing of Sheffield Wednesday's Matt Penney in January, as the Midlands club search for a new left-back to shore up their fragile defensive options.

It is also believed, however, that Premier League duo Bournemouth and Brighton are both tracking the talented youngster, and if these top-flight clubs come knocking in January, he may prefer a move to the top tier rather than a move to Villa Park.

There is no doubt that John McGinn has been Villa's standout performer this season, since his arrival from Hibernian in the summer.

There is also no doubt, though, that thanks to his impressive performances, Premier League clubs could come calling in the January transfer window.

He may have only been at Villa for a few months, but if top flight clubs come calling for the Scottish industrious midfielder, then his head may slightly turn.