Aston Villa duo Jack Grealish and John McGinn have been backed impress by Alan Hutton, who believes Dean Smith’s system will get the best out of the midfielders.  

It’s been a disappointing start to the season for Villa, who are now playing catch up in the race to qualify for the play-offs.

Smith has overseen four fixtures so far, winning twice at Villa Park, but losing twice on the road.

It’s been Villa’s defensive frailties that have cost them at Norwich City and QPR, but Smith’s side have looked good going forward, with Grealish and McGinn given more freedom in attacking midfield roles and are seeing far more of the ball with Smith’s side playing out from the back.

Discussing that pair with Villa’s official media, Hutton backed them to express themselves and show their quality: “The new system gives the likes of Jack Grealish and John McGinn freedom and the opportunity to express themselves.

"It's definitely good for me and the rest of the defence if we can give these players the ball, so that they can go into the final third and show what they can do." 

Grealish was the star of the show as Smith picked up his second victory with Villa on Friday evening against Bolton Wanderers.

The 23-year-old midfielder scored Villa’s opener before his free-kick was met by James Chester, who doubled Villa’s lead.

Smith will be hoping his side can build on that three-point haul this weekend against a high-flying Derby County.

In recent weeks the Rams have picked up points against Sheffield United, West Brom and Middlesbrough, three of the favourites for promotion.

The Verdict

Smith’s system isn’t dissimilar to Steve Bruce’s, but the way Villa build attacks from the back helps Grealish and McGinn, who are receiving the ball into their feet rather than playing for second balls.

Both have looked good under Smith, and if they can continue impressing, you’d expect Villa to rise through the table, such is their importance.

Thoughts? Let us know!

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