Aston Villa boss Dean Smith as explained why Jack Grealish move to Manchester city was inevitable.
JACK Grealish, who was Aston Villa's captain and best player, joined Manchester city last week for a £100million move that saw him become the most expensive English player.
Aston Villa's coach, while speaking to Sky Sport, also has said that currently the club could not offer what Grealish wanted, which was Champions League football
He said ""We at Aston Villa are probably 18 months behind where we needed to be to keep Jack, but Jack will show his worth on the highest stage of all in the Champions League, as he did in the Euros in the summer.
"We're all disappointed that Jack chose to leave the football club because he meant a lot to all of us. But we also understand why he left as well and we wish him well apart from when he plays against Aston Villa.
"He's a unique player, a unique character, and I can honestly say he's the best player I've worked with and I've really enjoyed helping to develop Jack into the person he is today.
"In terms of where Jack can go, he'll thrive at the highest level. It's what he was born to do."
Aston Villa has also been active this transfer summer has they have secured Emi Buendia, Leon Bailey and Danny Ing in preparation for the forthcoming season.
