Aston Villa have confirmed that assistant manager John Terry has left the club after four years in the Midlands.
Initially signing as a player in 2017, the former Chelsea legend took the captaincy at Villa Park, registering two goal contributions in 36 fixtures for the Villans with one goal and one assist [Transfermarkt].
He then moved on to a role within the coaching setup under Dean Smith, helping the team to promotion back to the Premier League two years ago and keeping them there ever since, but he has now decided to leave the club in search of a new challenge [avfc.co.uk].
Interestingly, he has stated his intention to have a break from football to spend time with his family, although he is now the bookmakers’ favourite for the managerial role at Swansea City [Wales Online].
In light of his exit, loads of Aston Villa fans took to Twitter to express their feelings about the 40-year-old’s decision to move on. It naturally came as a disappointment to many, with Smith’s side having the joint-seventh best defensive record in last season’s Premier League as Terry helped to instil the nous from his playing days into Villa’s squad.
Aston Villa fans react
Replying to Aston Villa’s official Twitter channel, here is what some supporters had to say upon hearing the news, with one describing Terry as a “top professional” for his work at the club:
“will be a big loss actually”
Credit: @catrinedwards18″We will never forget how passionately you celebrated that goal against Arsenal”Credit: @AlexAstonVilla”A player and person I never wanted anywhere near Aston Villa! How wrong I was. You have been a leader on the pitch and showed players how to be the best they can. A true professional and I thank you for your service. Best of luck in your new adventure”Credit: @PhillPhillbull”Really gutted about this, he worked wonders with the defence last season. Wish you all the best JT, no doubt a successful managerial career awaits you”Credit: @ArborCorpKorea”NOOOOOOOO”Credit: @TyBracey”Disappointing news but a top professional. Huge part of where Villa are now. Will become an excellent manager”Credit: @moore_tomasIn other news, many Aston Villa fans react to this transfer update.