Dean Smith confirms Jack Grealish to miss Leeds test but could return for Sheffield United trip

Aston Villa face trips to Leeds on Saturday and Sheffield United on Wednesday and Dean Smith has spoken with the press this morning, to update on the availability of his squad for the trip to Elland Road.

🔜 #LEEAVL. 💪

Dean Smith joined the media this morning to preview our trip to Elland Road on Saturday. 🗣️

Updates to follow… pic.twitter.com/SnFOw8n2hO

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) February 26, 2021

Speaking on Jack Grealish he said:

“He won’t be ready for tomorrow. He had some discomfort, so he went to see the doctor and they decided that he needed a period of rest. I believe that he’s very close to being pain-free.”

He also discussed Matty Cash, Kortney Hause and Wesley and seemed hopeful of all returning shortly:

Smith: “Matty Cash is back on the training pitches running, we’ll be guided by the medical department on when he joins in with us.

“Kortney Hause is due to be back on the grass next week, and Wesley should be back in full contact training in the next week or two.”#LEEAVL pic.twitter.com/r1nKACnfZV

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) February 26, 2021

On Grealish: “He’s getting better. He won’t be ready for tomorrow but he’s getting better. People speculated how long he’s going to be out – I’m not sure how they can do that when I don’t know, the doc doesn’t know. He could be back vs SUFC or Wolves. We’ll be led by Jack.” #AVFC

— Ben Dinnery (@BenDinnery) February 26, 2021

Smith’s Fantasy Football views

Dean Smith was also asked in the press conference about Fantasy Football following the club banning its players after news of Jack Grealish’s injury leaked in advance of last week’s game.

It was the first question asked and Smith responded saying:

“It must be slow news week if that is the lead manager’s question. I don’t play it, I live in the real world not the fantasy world. Yes I was made aware of it. Am I aware it could be tracked? No, I don’t think a lot of the other players and staff were as well but i’ve reminded everybody at the football club of their responsibilities of being a member of staff at an elite football club. 

“I’m sure they won’t be making that same mistake again after knowing what they know now.” 

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This article was edited by Josh Barker.

Source: 101greatgoals.com