Dean Smith remains optimistic ahead of the Second City Derby

Dean Smith has really taken the Aston Villa fan community by storm following recent results. It would be even better if he can win the Second City Derby.

Aston Villa face Birmingham City next weekend in the Second City Derby at the Villa Park. The Clarets and Blues won their last match against Bolton Wanderers by a 3-0 score and put in a really good display during that victory. But now, the big task is to continue that rich vein of form when Villa play next.

Steven Bruce was fired by Aston Villa after he left their promotion hopes in a tattered state. Following three wins in their opening eleven games, Dean Smith has managed to steady the ship from a turbulent spell and has delivered three victories in five matches in charge of the club so far this season.

After dispatching the Trotters last weekend, it is yet another litmus paper test in the Villa Park on the 25th, but Dean Smith is already starting to prepare for the match in spite of being without a few players who are currently fulfilling international commitments. In addition, the 47 year old has insisted that he will not settle for anything less than a win.

Plus, promotion remains the priority for the Clarets.

"“As I said from the start when I arrived, the aim is promotion,” he said. “At Derby we got out first away win since the start of the season (at Hull) so that is a boost. And it’s two wins on the spin now which also helps. When this team knows how good they can be, they can go and put on a really good run of results.”"

The mentality in the Aston Villa dugout remains extremely positive and that is really good for the team from an overall point of view. However, the hosts may have to deal with injuries to James Chester, John McGinn and Neil Taylor after the trio was forced to withdraw from international duty.