- Dean Smith has heaped praise on Ezri Konsa labelling him a “Rolls-Royce” defender
- Smith signed Konsa twice, once at Brentford and then at Aston Villa
- He also commented on the comparisons to Paul McGrath
Former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has heaped praise on Ezri Konsa, calling him a “Rolls-Royce.” Smith reflected on the defender’s remarkable evolution since their time together at Villa Park.
The 55-year-old secured Konsa’s services for Villa in a £12 million deal from Brentford in 2019, marking the second time he had signed the highly-rated centre-back.
Since those early days battling at the wrong end of the Premier League table, Konsa has undergone an incredible journey, transforming from a promising young prospect into an indispensable international defender at the heart of Unai Emery’s Champions League-chasing side.
In an interview with BBC 5 Live Sport, Smith highlighted Konsa’s superb composure and ability to draw fouls, likening him to one of the greatest defenders in English football history.
“Signed him twice, once from Charlton for Brentford and then for Villa from Brentford as well. He’s like a Rolls-Royce, love the way he plays.
“He’s actually one of the most fouled centre-backs I’ve ever seen as well. He wins free kicks like no other centre-back can. But yeah, he’s come on leaps and bounds and, you know, people started likening him to Paul McGrath at Villa and Paul McGrath’s known as God.”
Athleticism, recruitment, and Grealish’s verdict
Beyond the prestigious comparisons to McGrath, Smith shed light on the initial scouting process at Brentford and recalled a telling admission from former Villa captain Jack Grealish regarding Konsa’s defensive capabilities.
“He was one that was flagged up by the recruitment department at Brentford. I went to watch him against Shrewsbury in the playoffs. I remember he was playing right back at the time. He came in, he’s athletic, he’s good in the air, he’s a good defender.
“Man City played at Villa, I think it was last season, and Jack had come up to me after the game, and he was like, ‘I was thinking, I hope Ezri’s not playing it right-back, because I don’t want to be playing 1v1 against him.’
“I think that’s his biggest strength. He’s really calm on the ball, but 1v1 defending is outstanding.”
ReadAstonVilla verdict
Ultimately, Smith’s insights highlight the remarkable growth that has turned Konsa into one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. For £12 million, he remains an absolute bargain, and ever since Unai Emery became manager, he has oozed class and calmness.
Now, with the World Cup beginning, he has the opportunity to showcase his “Rolls-Royce” abilities on the biggest stages of all.
