John Terry posts touching tribute to Aston Villa boss Dean Smith after leaving club to pursue management career

JOHN TERRY has paid a heartwarming tribute to Dean Smith following his departure from Aston Villa.

The legendary former Chelsea and England defender delivered the shock news yesterday that he was leaving the Premier League club to pursue his ambition of becoming a manager himself.

The 40-year-old finished his playing days at Villa after moving from Stamford Bridge in 2017.

After hanging up his boots, he then returned a year later to become assistant head coach to Smith and helped them to win promotion to the top-flight.

Now after leaving that role the ex-defender has posted a touching message to his old boss on Instagram.

'FOREVER INDEBTED'

JT wrote: “Gaffer… I will forever be indebted to you for giving me the opportunity to start my coaching career at such a wonderful club.

“Allowing me into board meetings, difficult player conversations, meetings with potential new players and presenting to them our ambitions,has been the best insight I could ever have wished for.

“Watching you work and prepare and learning from you every single day as well as allowing me time on the grass to develop as a coach has been the best education I could ever have had.

“You have taught me to never be to high after a win and never be to low after a loss, always how can we improve to make us better for the next game.

'A GREAT FRIEND'

“I have loved every minute of it and learnt so much from you, Im so proud of what we have achieved at the club you loved and supported growing up.

“Aston Villa will always have a special place in my heart.

“Thanks Gaffer you’re a Great manager and a great friend.”

Terry continued: “I would also like to thank all the Players and staff for your help and support in my time at the club and wish you all the very best for the upcoming season.

“A big Thank You to the Aston Villa Fans for the great support you have given me as a player and a coach at this great club. Thank You. JT.

COMPETITION: SPOT THE BALL TO WIN A CAR AND CASH

DREAM TEAM IS BACK!

And he added: “You will all have to make your own Tea’s in the morning now…”

Terry, who completed his Uefa Pro-licence badges earlier this year, has been linked with the vacant Swansea job.

But he said yesterday he intends to visit teams around Europe to gain further experience as he appeared to rule out replacing Steve Cooper at the Swans.

⚽ Read our Transfer news live blog for the very latest rumours, gossip and done deals