Dean Smith backs "first class" Mile Jedinak to fill Aston Villa defensive void

An injury to Kortney Hause, coupled with Tyrone Mings’ suspension following his sending-off in Wednesday’s 2-1 win at Rotherham, means Jedinak is set for only his second start since September in today’s crunch clash with the Robins.

The 34-year-old has seen his chances limited this season due to injury and the form of others but impressed after coming off the bench when Mings was dismissed at the New York Stadium.

Smith has described Jedinak and Glenn Whelan as two of the best professionals he has ever worked with.

And the boss said: “I had no doubts about putting Mile on against Rotherham and he gave the kind of performance I was expecting.

“He has been first class from the moment came in, even though he has not played as many minutes as he probably would have liked.

“That is due to the calibre of players we have in midfield. We also had Axel Tuanzebe and James Chester playing at centre-back as well.

“When Chezzie got injured, Mile was injured too. His chances of playing diminished.

“But he is first-class in training, his attitude and character around the place and his understanding of the game. We have had some really good conversations about how we see the club moving on. He has really bought into that.”

Hause was set for a late fitness test this morning but Smith yesterday said it was “doubtful” the Wolves loanee would feature due to a hip problem.

Jedinak began the season alongside Chester as part of Steve Bruce’s first-choice centre-half pairing but struggled for form.

His only start since Smith’s arrival came in a more familiar midfield position but the boss is confident the Australian international can perform at the back.

Smith said: “I had told Mile at Rotherham that if any defender got injured he was the first sub on. He knew that and knows his role within the team.”