• John Terry set to be appointed No 2 if Smith lands job• Rui Faria and Brendan Rodgers no longer under considerationDean Smith has emerged as the new frontrunner to take charge at Aston Villa, with the Midlands club considering making an official approach to Brentford to thrash out a deal for their manager. Villa’s options have narrowed in the wake of Thierry Henry and Rui Faria making it clear that they are not interested in the post, paving the way for Smith to take over at the club he grew up supporting.Although nothing is being taken for granted, especially given the twists and turns in the search so far, the 47-year-old Smith is now the leading candidate for the vacancy and it would be a surprise if the Championship club decided to look elsewhere. Related: Aston Villa target high-profile appointment after sacking Steve Bruce Continue readingreadfullarticle
