Dean Smith: Emiliano Martinez bringing more than just big saves to Aston Villa
Dean Smith claimed Emiliano Martinez is contributing more than just big saves for Villa after the goalkeeper starred in Saturday’s derby win at Wolves.
Martinez, who spent the 2015-16 campaign on loan at Molineux, made several key saves - including a brilliant one-handed stop to deny Leander Dendoncker - as Villa snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory.
The 28-year-old has kept five clean sheets in 10 matches since arriving in a £20million move from Arsenal on the eve of the season and in addition to his performances, Smith has also been delighted with his attitude.
“It is not just about keeping the ball out of the back of the net,” said the boss. “It is the composure he shows, the calmness he gives out to the rest of the team.
“He is one of our more experienced players in the team. He won trophies last season with Arsenal and he wants to go and improve and show what we are about at Villa.
“At the moment he has made the No.1 his own shirt and he knows he is going to come under pressure from Tom (Heaton) and Jed (Steer). He knows he has to keep performing like that.”
Smith believes Martinez has quickly become a leader in a Villa team which looks significantly improved from the one which avoided relegation by a single point last season.
John McGinn, who agreed a new contract extension last week, also played a key role in Saturday’s victory. The midfielder was brought down by Nelson Semedo to earn the stoppage time penalty converted by substitute Anwar El Ghazi.
“I think since the start of this season he has shown what he is, what he is about and he certainly warranted a new contract,” said Smith.
“He is one of the players with whom we feel we can build a bright future at this club.
“The likes of him, Tyrone Mings, Jack Grealish, Emi, Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash. They are good aged footballers but players who can get better and better.”
