One to Watch – Adam Smith

Name: Adam Smith

Date of Birth: 29/4/1991

Nationality: England

Former Clubs: Wycombe Wanderers, Torquay United, Bournemouth

League Appearances (Goals): 72 (3)

International Appearances (Goals): 0 (0)

Spurs are renowned for their unfailing ability to swoop for promising youngsters, plonk them in their so-called ‘passionate and talented` youth system, chuck them out on loan to numerous league clubs before eventually releasing them into the footballing wilderness having destroyed any footballing potential they once had. Dean Parrett, John Bostock, Danny Rose and Ben Alnwick can probably kiss goodbye to their football careers, whilst the solitary figure of Ledley King is the only high profile player Spurs can regard as a success story. Be afraid Adam Smith, be very afraid.

It would probably be wise for the 20-year-old to seek a move away from Spurs in order to progress his development, as the attacking defender has probably been MK Dons best player this season with interest from numerous Championship clubs fully deserved. Smith has displayed great maturity for his age earning praise for his attacking prowess, defensive intelligence and two stunning strikes against Rochdale and Leyton Orient this season. Having represented England at youth level since U16`s, the right back has shown great potential and should go down as one to watch for the future, let alone for Saturday`s game.

Playing Career

Adam Smith is a product of the Tottenham Youth Academy, but has spent most of his early career gaining experience on loan at league clubs. His first spell was at Wycombe Wanderers where he made four appearances in all competitions at the beginning of the 2009/2010 season. Later that same campaign he signed for Torquay United where he put in some promising displays during his four month stay with The Gulls.

Last season the 20-year-old spent the season on loan at Bournemouth where he made the right back position his own, racking up an impressive 42 appearances, helping his side to the play-off semi finals before unfortunately being beaten on penalties to Huddersfield Town. International recognition also came early for the defender as he featured in one of the first games at the new Wembley for England`s Under 16`s in 2007. He has since managed four appearances for the England Under 21 side.