Former Brentford midfielder Gary Smith will be hoping for a change of luck as he embarks on a new challenge next season following his release by the Bees this summer.
Last term
Smith’s campaign was cut short after suffering a long-term ankle problem, and he was forced to watch from the sidelines as Andy Scott’s men raced to the League Two title.
But, with the ankle now fully healed, Smith is now looking for a new club as the 25-year-old sets his sights on getting his career back on track.
Givemefootball’s Mark Shail spoke exclusively to the former
Middlesbrough trainee to reflect on what was a frustrating season at
Brentford.
Q: Were you disappointed to leave Brentford?
A: It’s always disappointing to leave a club because that’s where all your mates are. But I think I knew it was coming after the season I’d had, and both the manager and I felt it was time for a new challenge. Now I’m just looking forward to playing regular football again.
Q: What was the nature of the injury?
A: It was an ankle problem and first of all they thought I would be out for a few weeks, but I ended up being sidelined for months. I had a couple of injections in the ankle and when they didn’t sort things out I was forced to have an operation.
Then, by the time I came back the team were flying at the top of the league and I couldn’t get back into the side. You can’t really complain when the team are winning every week and are top of the division.
Q: How is the ankle now?
A: It’s fine now. I managed to train towards the end of last season and I have been doing lots of running and fitness work over the summer. Now it’s a case of finding a new club and getting some regular first-team football under my belt again.
I’ve had some enquiries from a couple of clubs so I’ll just wait and see what develops. As long as I can stay fit I’m sure I’ll be fine.
Q: How do you think Brentford will fare in League One next term?
A: I think they will do well. They’ve got a good young side and the manager Andy Scott has done a great job. If he is able to strengthen the side by making a few signings they might surprise people in League One next season.
Q: You must be keeping your fingers crossed that you can stay fit next season?
A: Yes, I’m 25 now but I haven’t yet had a full season. I want to play at as high a level as possible but the most important thing to do now is get back to playing week-in-week-out. I’m sure, with a good pre-season behind me, I’ll be able to do a good job for somebody.
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