London [UK], Oct 11 (ANI): Former England skipper John Terry, who had recently announced his retirement from the international football, has been appointed as the assistant coach of Birmingham based professional football club Aston Villa.

In addition to this, the club appointed former footballer Dean Smith, as the head coach of the club, and former Spanish winger Jesus Garcia Pitarch, as sporting director.

Reflecting on the appointments, Aston Villa's CEO Christian Purslow said that the development marks the beginning of a new era for the club.

He further appreciated Terry, Smith and Pitarch saying that the team is delighted to secure their services after an extensive search.

"These three appointments represent the start of a new era and direction at Aston Villa and we are delighted to secure their services after an extensive search," Aston Villa official website quoted Purslow, as saying.

"Dean has a clear and successful coaching philosophy as well as a real understanding of Aston Villa Football Club. He is also knowledgeable about the Championship. The board welcomes him to the club and is looking forward to working with him and his staff. John is one of the most decorated players in English football, has an affinity with the club and is ready to make the next step in his career working alongside Dean. And Jesus also brings a huge amount of experience in his particular role having worked with some of the biggest clubs in Europe. He will ensure the club has an integrated approach running from the academy through the U23s and into the first-team," he added.

Terry has earned a total of 78 caps for his national side. Apart from that, he won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups, a Champions League title for Chelsea and became one of the most decorated players of the club. (ANI)