Aston Villa chiefs look set to stick with manager Dean Smith for the time being, according to reliable reporter Ashley Preece.

As to be expected, a number of Villa fans have been reacting to the news on social media.

Villa fell to a fifth consecutive defeat on Friday night against Southampton, which led to multiple supporters calling for him to be sacked amid a mood of toxicity. The club even reportedly made initial contact with former AS Roma manager Paulo Fonseca prior to the latest defeat, but it seems as if Smith will be handed more time in the Midlands.

Preece shared a story on Birmingham Live on Saturday, claiming that the 50-year-old will be given at least the Brighton game following the international break to salvage his Villa career.

Villa fans react

The AVFC Faithful relayed Preece’s claim on Twitter, which led to a number of Villa supporters hitting out at the club’s NSWE ownership and Christian Purslow for their reported decision, with one fan labelling it 'horrendous'.

“NSWE out”

Credit: @avfcdom2

“Oh dear god”

Credit: @LawsAVFC

“Pathetically run club, what a joke”

Credit: @benharris42

“Love Smith, but that’s a horrendous call.”

Credit: @RossMatthewman7

“Purslow out”

Credit: @avfcjoe_

“This is harming us game by game, we need change and bringing in a new manager over the international break would’ve been the ideal thing to do”

Credit: @Cameron_Avfc

In other news: 'How?', 'God help us' - Some Villa fans 'baffled' by confirmed player news.