Chelsea great John Terry has paid tribute to Aston Villa boss Dean Smith after leaving his role as assistant manager.

Terry delivered the shock news yesterday that he was leaving the Premier League club to pursue his ambition of becoming a manager himself.

He posted to social media: “Gaffer… I will forever be indebted to you for giving me the opportunity to start my coaching career at such a wonderful club.

“Allowing me into board meetings, difficult player conversations, meetings with potential new players and presenting to them our ambitions,has been the best insight I could ever have wished for.

“Watching you work and prepare and learning from you every single day as well as allowing me time on the grass to develop as a coach has been the best education I could ever have had.

“You have taught me to never be to high after a win and never be to low after a loss, always how can we improve to make us better for the next game.

“I have loved every minute of it and learnt so much from you, I'm so proud of what we have achieved at the club you loved and supported growing up.

“Aston Villa will always have a special place in my heart.

“Thanks Gaffer you're a Great manager and a great friend."

Terry continued: “I would also like to thank all the Players and staff for your help and support in my time at the club and wish you all the very best for the upcoming season.

“A big Thank You to the Aston Villa Fans for the great support you have given me as a player and a coach at this great club. Thank You. JT.

“You will all have to make your own Tea's in the morning now…"