Aston Villa have seen a real resurgence in form since Dean Smith took charge of the club in October after Steve Bruce's sacking. 

The former Brentford boss has won three of his five matches with the club and has them playing the attractive brand of lethal, attacking football that was expected of him before his arrival.

He has begun to get the best out of star midfielder Jack Grealish by moving him into an advanced position, allowing him to do more damage in and around the opponent's goal.

But, one of his most effective, and perhaps most obvious, moves was to reinstate Axel Tuanzebe as one of his starting centre-backs.

Bruce was guilty of playing the Manchester United loanee at right-back, with Mile Jedinak filling in next to James Chester.

But, since making the move, the now 21-year-old has been a revelation.

A picture of composure when on the ball and a beast of a man when trying to win it back.

He celebrated his 21st birthday on Wednesday and the Villa faithful were quick to respond with their best wishes...

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