Tottenham’s reserve defender Adam Smith enjoyed a productive loan spell at Millwall last season while continuing to cement his slot in England’s Under 21 side. Smith showed that he can perform in the second tier of English football but after reaching the age of 22, the right back feels he has to take the next step in 2013-14.
“I’ve just turned 22,” Smith said on Talksport “I felt like I’ve done all my experience.
“I’ve learnt my trade. This season, I have to play in the Premier League, whether by doing well in pre-season or get a Premier League loan.”
Smith also had to answer questions relating to England’s dismal showing in the Under 21 European Champions and he clearly stated the need for the players involved to be performing regularly in the Premiership.
“I think the Premier League clubs are buying all these foreigners and not giving young English players a chance,” he added.
“I’ve been on loan a few times and most of the other lads have been on loan. “Just give them a chance. If you look at the Spanish team, some of them have even played in the senior team.
“I agree we need to give young players more of a chance.”
Smith has made just two senior appearances for Spurs so it’s unlikely that he will be thrust into the first team next season although rumours of an unexpected vacancy at right back arose yesterday after a flood of money reduced the odds on Kyle Walker joining Chelsea.
The move went unreported by the media but the story might just intensify next week. Meanwhile, Adam Smith’s plea is probably a justified one and a Premiership loan deal could be the short term answer for this promising defender.
Glad your thinking has caught up with the rest of us who were of that opinion ages ago. What he told TalkSport is just a re-iteration of what he said months ago.
Cesar Azipilcueta – chelsea rb – smashing it!
Who cares? Hope we don’t lose Walker though. He’s gonna be good this year I think. Maturity might be the key for him. Technically very gifted. It’s a sale we’d regret I think.
I like Walker but i don’t think he’ll improve much. i don’t think he is that technically gifted. He’s very quick obviously but he’s not particularly skillful, his crossing is pretty poor and his passing and movement going forward isn’t particularly incisive.