Dean Smith has only been in charge of Aston Villa for two months but the boyhood fan has already made a massive impact at his new club.

A six-game unbeaten run, which includes fixtures against several promotion rivals, has pushed the side close to the play-offs.

Whilst the results have been positive, it's the performances that will be equally pleasing to Villa supporters.

Steve Bruce came in for severe criticism because of the style of play his side adopted, with the football often dull. However, Villa are now free-scoring with Smith's men hitting 19 goals in their past six games.

And, it's fair to say the fans are responding to that.

The Express & Star have revealed how Villa have sold over 1,400 half-season tickets which is more than they've managed to shift since the 2009/10 season.

At that time, Martin O'Neill was in charge and Villa seemed capable of challenging for a European place in the Premier League.

Smith will be hoping for another big crowd on Saturday as they welcome Stoke City to Villa Park, with the new boss yet to lose at home since taking over.

The Verdict

Smith has transformed Villa both on and off the pitch since taking over, with everyone now pulling in the same direction.

The supporters are completely behind the new manager and that's reflected in this update.

Villa Park should be getting some very big crowds between now and May and those fans could make a big difference as they try to help the side to a top-six finish at least.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.