Smith to return? What would it mean?
By Andy Baggott
July 13 2011
For weeks now there have been rumours of Alan Smith returning. Told by Newcastle he was free to find a new club, stories were rife that the ex number 17 was going to come back.
Today those rumours have gathered pace as the bookies have dropped their odds dramatically – some even refusing to take bets. The club are keeping quiet, but the Internet is awash with people ‘in the know’ who ‘guarantee’ he’ll be back. Whilst the majority of these are people taking a punt, the saying ‘there is no smoke without fire’ couldn’t be truer.
IF, and it is still a big if, Smith returns, it will divide opinion like no other transfer in recent memory. ‘Smudger’ was the local boy done good, the Rothwell kid who wore the Leeds badge like a coat of arms. Strong in the tackle (sometimes a little bit too much), a decent scoring record, and the heart of a Lion. He kissed the badge, he loved the club – genuine tears poured sown his face when we were relegated. But then what? The ultimate betrayal? He signed for ‘them’ on the wrong side of the Pennines. Leeds fans were shocked. Claims and counter claims flew about – Smith held out for this move, compared to ‘it was the only offer on the table’ – Smith waived a huge amount of money to sign for them, which helped with Leeds’ crippling debts at the time. He was hated by the same fans who used to adore him. A broken leg against Liverpool effectively put an end to his career there – he moved on to Newcastle, but was never the same player. He had been turned into a tough tackling central midfielder, and at Newcastle didn’t score a goal – unbelievable for a player who represented England as a striker….
So what now? Too young to be on the scrap heap, and interest in him will be high. His next move is likely to be his last, and will it be an ‘emotional’ homecoming? Some fans will continue to hate, some would welcome him back with open arms – like the prodigal son..
Me? I’ve seen too much over the last few years to let anything surprise me anymore. I honestly don’t care about his past anymore – in my younger days I would, and I understand why some will continue to. However, for me now, it’s what he does on the pitch – the club is more important to me that any one player (unless we ever signed Gary Neville!!). Is he good enough for us? Will he improve us? I honestly don’t know. The Smith of old would be a stunning signing at this level – the Smith of Newcastle days would disappoint. Maybe the challenge of being back here, and proving a point (any maybe righting a very big wrong) would rejuvenate a player who’s career has gone stale. The next few days are likely to show if we’re after him…
Still – will probably sign for Leicester – everyone else has!!!
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If he signs it will be all about what he does on the pitch.
We can debate the merits of his worth, as we have done for so long, but ultimately if he dons the famous white shirt again, we will all see his true value.
For me, I would love to see him return and I would love to see him prove he is worthy of the worship once given to him and which will be afforded him once again!
He certainly won't be the "homecoming hero" many will make him out to be but this club is bigger than ANY 1 individual and especially this individual.
I still hope it's another "Hooper" to Leeds story but if true like the song says M.O.T
Why sign 2 players as a potential midfield pairing when the ability of both to withstand the rigours of a full season is in doubt?
If we're wanting to go with a DCM pairing & Clayton isn't ready to step up, why aren't we looking for a younger player to bring in? I thought the blend of youth & experience is what SG is after.
He will be the Homecoming Hero!!!!
Just as another Smith would be if he came back from Warrington!!
In the 2nd division yes I am that old he played well and was a star he would do the same for you.
Have no animosity towards the lad at all in respect of his move across the Pennines.
But purely from a football point of view, he would not be anywhere near the sort of names I was hoping we would be trying to attract this season - especially when money is apparently such an issue. Agree with RAB. Never been the same player post Anfield for me.
He gave his all every week - but as for homecoming hero? We must be getting desperate. IMO
Will support the lad though - and hope if true it turns out well - for both club and player.
There would be nothing else to talk about...
The Swiss Party... Independent like. Tidy.
For me he his signing has a ring of Strachan about him.
I also can't see him going elsewhere as he has an affection for the club rarely seen in players these days.
Of course this is my opinion I dont expect every one to agree with it
But I still think he would cut hes balls of to captain us back to were we come from
Would love it to, though.
For now, i'll bury my head in the sand.
The Swiss Party... Independent like. Tidy.
Ross & Becchio up top with Smith and Brown rotating as a DCm to partner Homegrown Hero Hoswon.
Dont think he'll be starting too many games with both Smith and Brown as the 2 CMs.
Quote:BB
IMO SG will be going 4-4-2 more than 4-5-1 this season.
Ross & Becchio up top with Smith and Brown rotating as a DCm to partner Homegrown Hero Hoswon.
Dont think he'll be starting too many games with both Smith and Brown as the 2 CMs.
Agree - it's very plausible - and certainly something the fans would love if they saw it... but are we really gonna land Smith?
I doubt it....
The Swiss Party... Independent like. Tidy.
If it happens I hope you will shed your guise as "Doubting Thomas"
Sometimes you just need blind faith.
Smithy was a great player and the memory of him in the white shirt will live for ever but what's gone has gone and the club should be looking forward not back.