And despite being surprised, McCoist is delighted for Smith to be given a chance with his boyhood club.
“I didn’t see Dean Smith getting the job, I must admit,” McCoist said on talkSPORT.
“I know (he was favourite) but I just think everybody went obviously with the name of Henry. But I have to say, I’m delighted with it.
Aston Villa news: Ally McCoist says he expected Thierry Henry to get the job, not Dean Smith (Image: TALKSPORT)
Aston Villa news: Dean Smith left Brentford after three years at Griffin Park (Image: GETTY)
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“I’m really absolutely delighted with it. Absolutely (it is a shame for Brentford).
“He’ll be absolutely desperate to make this a success clearly.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity because if you look at Villa and they have been sleeping for years and years and years.
“I was looking at the league table as well, they’re not that far off the play off positions.”