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Mile Jedinak is the latest of the veterans to be released.
Words by Regan Foy | @FindFoy
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Mile Jedinak is the latest veteran at Aston Villa that Dean Smith has told will not be receiving a contract renewal as the club find themselves in the Premier League.
Albert Adomah, Alan Hutton, Tommy Elphick and Ritchie de Laet have all been told to find new clubs this summer.
Jedinak seemingly announced the news via his Instagram, much like Alan Hutton did last night – thanking the fans of the club for everything, including their support – during his time at the club.
He’s the consummate professional and has truly shown that since signing, whilst also providing us with some valuable memories along the way.
Perhaps the two most memorable moments from Mile happen to be in Play-Off Semi Finals.
Last season, Mile scored the only goal across two legs against Middlesbrough, whilst showcasing his defensive ability in the second leg by being a defensive behemoth throughout. This season, the memory comes from him slotting away his penalty during the shoot-out against West Bromwich Albion – his first touch of the game – before staring into the Aston Villa fans and almost saying “that’s it. Job done.”
He has not had the easiest of times at Aston Villa, especially when deployed in a makeshift defence under Steve Bruce, and his lack of playing time during his final season here. But not once did he moan. And according to Dean Smith, was one of the best trainers at the club, week in week out – consistently pushing others to do better.
Maybe not a legend. But certainly appreciated.
