Leicester City have confirmed Dean Smith as their new manager until the end of the season. The former Aston Villa boss has joined City on a short-term contract, succeeding Brendan Rodgers at the King Power Stadium. The 52-year-old will begin his duties tomorrow (Tuesday) ahead of the side’s trip to Manchester City at the weekend. Joining him at Leicester will be former Villa coaches John Terry and Craig Shakespeare.
A statement released by the club read: “Leicester City Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Dean Smith as the club’s First Team Manager until the end of the 2022/23 season. The former Norwich City, Aston Villa and Brentford manager will take charge of first team training from Tuesday in preparation for Saturday’s Premier League trip to Manchester City. Smith brings a wealth of managerial experience and expertise to the role and, along with his coaching team, will be tasked with helping the football club retain its Premier League status as we head into the final eight games of the current season.”
Dean Smith added: “I’m really happy to have the opportunity to lead the team during these final weeks of the season. The challenge in front of us is clear, but it’s one myself and my coaching team have experienced before and, with the quality in this squad and the number of games remaining, it’s very much achievable. Our first job is to rebuild confidence and instil belief in the team and I’m looking forward to getting to work with the players this week. Saturday will be a big test, but it’s the kind of occasion that reminds us all what it means to be a Premier League club, competing on the biggest stages against the best players in the world. I know we’ll be well supported by our travelling fans. We have to connect with that and give them a performance they can be proud of. We go there positive, looking for points.”
