John Terry has shared his thoughts on Aston Villa boss Dean Smith picking up the manager of the month award for March. 

/BwJVevohE8A/">Posting on Instagram, Terry praised both Smith and the rest of the club's backroom staff after their work helped Villa move comfortably into the play-off places.

Writing alongside a photograph of the four first-team coaches, he said simply: 'congratulations gaffer' along with a little trophy emoji.

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Villa won all five of their matches throughout March, scoring 13 goals and firing themselves up into fifth place with a spot in the top-six now looking very likely.

It is a run of form that has continued into April too with wins against Sheffield Wednesday last weekend and Rotherham United in midweek extending the 100% record to seven matches.

Next up for Smith's side is a clash with fellow play-off hopefuls Bristol City at Villa Park in what is sure to be an enthralling encounter.

The verdict 

I mean there was only ever going to be one winner wasn't there?

Villa have been absolutely remarkable over the last seven games, although a lot of credit must go to Jack Grealish as well as Smith for the way has lifted the team.

However, the decision to make the midfielder captain should not be overlooked as that has had a very clear impact on the rest of the squad.