— Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) November 15, 2021
As reported by Sportsmail recently, Smith is eager to take on the challenge of helping the Canaries escape another drop into the Championship.
He was considered to be the No 1 candidate among club chiefs, although there were initial concerns over whether he would need a longer break after his Villa departure.
Smith has since visited family in New York, but impressed the Norwich hierarchy and agreed to terms over the weekend to seal his immediate top-flight comeback.
Frank Lampard, the former Chelsea manager, pulled his name out of consideration last week, leaving Smith as the standout choice. He was offered the role on Friday.
Reacting to his appointment, Smith said: ‘It has been a whirlwind seven days, but I’m really pleased to be back and working for Norwich City in the Premier League.
‘Clearly, there has been some wonderful work that has gone into this football club over last four and a half years. It is now the job of myself and Craig to continue and improve on that work with the ultimate aim of surviving in the Premier League.
‘Norwich City is a big club, with a massive hardcore of supporters who are fully understanding in what it means to be part of the club and its community.
I was brought up in an era when Norwich were competing in Europe – I remember those times well and whenever I’ve visited Carrow Road and Norwich you can really sense the connection between the fans, staff and players.
‘Together, we all have to make Carrow Road a really tough place for visiting teams.
‘From the age of 16 I’ve been working in football. I think in that time I’ve had four months out and didn’t enjoy it. It’s great to get straight back in with a club that are determined to be progressive.
‘I’ve always worked to improve and develop players – with that obviously comes improved performances. I was really impressed with the idea, structure and vision that is already in place at the club.’
