Smith Dismisses Talk That Ghanaian Winger Could Make January Switch To Middlesbrough

Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has quashed speculation that Albert Adomah will leave Villa Park in the January transfer window.

Middlesbrough were keen to re-sign the winger in the summer but failed to agree personal terms with the player, leading to the deal collapsing.

Speaking about Adomah’s future, Smith (who took over from Steve Bruce in October) said he is happy with the Ghanaian international’s performances:

“I have no thoughts for Albert in January. He is an Aston Villa player and I am enjoying working with him. He is one of the nicest fellows I have worked with and he showed some quality last Sunday against Birmingham City before being unfortunately brought down.”

“He has been a great lad since I have been here and put in consistent performances. With him coming back, along with the likes of El Ghazi and Kodjia, we have some real firepower.”

The 30-year-old has started five of Smith’s eight games in charge, although he has been sidelined for the last two matches against Nottingham Forest and Boro with an ankle injury.

However, in his absence, Yannick Bolasie and Anwar El Ghazi have established themselves in the team, and he may find it hard to regain his place in the starting eleven.

Adomah has also yet to score this campaign despite hitting the back of the net 15 times last season, ending the campaign as Villa’s top goalscorer.