Dean Smith believes the goals will flow at Aston Villa

Monday night’s 0-0 draw with the Hammers was the second game in succession newly-promoted Villa have failed to score and they have netted just four times in five Premier League games.

But Smith took heart in the chances created against a good West Ham team and believes it is only a matter of time before they begin to hit the target on a regular basis.

The boss explained: “Against Crystal Palace (in the previous game) we didn’t even create chances in the final third until the last minute. There was an improvement on that.

“We just didn’t put the ball in the back of the net or make the most of the big moments we had.

“Is it a concern? No. I’d be more concerned had we not created chances. We were playing a very good team who are very well coached. West Ham will probably finish in the top 10.”

Smith reserved his biggest criticism for Villa’s performance in the final quarter of the match, which they played with a man advantage after Hammers defender Arthur Masuaku was sent off for two bookable offences.

His frustration was echoed by midfielder John McGinn, who said: “I think before (the sending off) we had a rhythm and were opening them up. There looked like there would be only one winner. When they went down to 10 men it seemed to galvanise them and they got to a lot more second balls.

“At the end of the game you saw a lot of players with their hands on their knees. It is so physically demanding. It is something we are getting used to now but we need to turn those draws into wins.

“In these games you need to win your home games and we are disappointed.”