Aston Villa are looking like one of the biggest threats to the promotion contenders this season and under Dean Smith they are showing promising signs heading into the festive period. 

One man who has played a crucial role in firing Villa back into play-off contention is Tammy Abraham, with the on-loan striker finding his scoring boots after a slow start to the campaign.

Abraham now has 11 goals to his name and will be keen to continue his impressive run of form for the remainder of the season.

In an interview with the Birmingham Mail, Abraham revealed what made him join Villa in the first place, and praised his teammates for helping him settle into life at Villa Park comfortably this season:

"I knew what a big club it was and when I joined it was a case of appreciating that and settling in as quickly as I could.

"The lads here are really tremendous – there’s a fantastic buzz around the place – and they’ve helped me get used to my new surroundings.

The striker also admitted that the Villa supporters have played their part in the impressive revival under Smith this season, as they look for a return to the top-flight: "I have to give fans lots of credit as as well as the players, to be fair. Their backing of me has been very heart-warming and they have offered me great support, the club great support and you can’t underestimate how much they are helping."

The on-loan Chelsea man was also full of praise for his manager, who has played a crucial role in the striker rediscovering his best form this season: "It’s a very positive way he wants to play and we’ve been delivering that for him.

"He’s great with the players too – he knows what they need at any given moment – he’s a good man-manager and is very encouraging."

Smith will be hoping that Abraham and his Villa teammates can continue their impressive run of form over the festive period, starting when they take on Stoke City at the weekend, knowing a win could take them to within a point of the play-off positions.

The Verdict

Abraham's comments won't come as a surprise to many as it's evident that he has settled into life at Villa Park.

Dean Smith certainly seems to be getting the best out of him this season since he arrived, and Abraham will be hoping that his goals can fire Aston Villa back into the Premier League this season.

The creativity and attacking talent that Abraham has around him will provide him with the service he needs to score goals for Villa.

Thoughts? Let us know!