Former Villa boss Dean Smith has had his say on a summer transfer at his old club
Dean Smith, Head Coach of Charlotte FC
Dean Smith(Image: Getty Images)
The departure of “one of our own” Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa to Newcastle United is “sad”, says former Villans boss Dean Smith.
Ramsey has departed Villa Park for Newcastle in a transfer deal said to be worth up to £44m.
"It is sad for the Villa fans to see one of our own go," said Smith, now in charge of Charlotte FC in MLS, who gave Ramsey his debut for the club.
Smith is backing Ramsey to thrive under Eddie Howe at St. James’ Park.
"Eddie is really good with the players so Jacob will settle in with him really well," he added.
"He could thrive under him and I can see why Eddie has gone for him. He's his type of player. He fits in with the work ethic. He's got the skillset.
"With my Villa head on, I'd rather see him at Villa still, but he's going to a Champions League team and a big, well-supported club so I wish him well. He will handle it."
"It’s impossible to put into words what playing for Aston Villa has meant to me," Ramsey wrote on Instagram. "From being a young fan in the Holte End to living my dream and scoring in front of it.
"This club has been an extended family to me, and I’ve got memories for life - from making my Premier League debut, experiencing Champions League nights back at Villa Park and scoring my first goals in those competitions.
"To everyone at Aston Villa, both at the academy and in the first team, thank you for your support, belief and guidance. You’ve helped me become the person and player I am today. I’ve played with some of the best & made friends for life.
"And finally to the fans - thank you for the love and backing. To represent you, as a boy from Birmingham, has been an absolute honour. Onto the next chapter now, but wish you all nothing but the best in the future. Thank you for everything!! JJ."
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