Connor Smith: I want to come in and contribute

Latest recruit Connor Smith, who joins the club on loan from Hearts of Midlothian, is looking forward to contributing to what has been a successful campaign so far.

The 21-year-old, speaking after signing for the club on a temporary deal which includes an option to buy, crosses the border for the first time, and is ready to hit the ground running at his new side.

“As soon as I heard about the interest from the club, I spoke to my agent and I spoke to a few boys at Hearts and they said it’s a massive club on the way back up. It was a no brainer for me,” he said.

“This is the first time I’ve ever moved away from my family, so it was a hard decision to make, but now I’m here I cannot wait to get started.”

Smith joins a group which has made a positive start to life as a National League North club, with the midfielder hoping to supplement the group and contribute to the ongoing success of the squad.

“I’ve seen that the club are top of the league. Obviously getting into the team is going to be tough, but I want to try and do that and play games,” he continued. 

“There are a lot of games, Saturday and Tuesday, which is ideal for me and just what I need to get flying and hopefully my mum and dad will come down and watch me as much as possible.”

Smith has been out on loan from Hearts on a number of occasions over the last couple of seasons, and has most recently racked up the appearances in Scottish League One and the Championship, where he has gained invaluable experience.

He also is looking forward to crossing the white line at Glanford Park, especially following what Jimmy Dean has told him about the following the Iron attract.

“It’s been up and down really,” he stated. 

“In the last few years, I’ve played good football and I’ve enjoyed it. I was at Hamilton and Queen’s Park over the last two years and I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve been playing football, which is what I’m here to do as well.

“I spoke to the manager and he said I’m here to play, and that was important for me. I want to come in and contribute with goals, assists and to play well for the team. I can’t wait to play here (at Glanford Park). I know the game on Saturday is away but I can’t wait to be playing here.

“I had a walk round the stadium with the gaffer earlier and he was saying that the fans are crazy for this level. He said about the support away and at home, so that’s going to be great for me and the club.”

Speaking on what we can expect from him when he’s on the pitch, Smith added: “I’ve got different sides to my game. I can score, contribute with the goals and assists, but I can do the dirty work as well if need be. I’ve been playing the majority of my games in centre-mid as a number 10. I can also play on the wing.

“I can’t wait. I’m hoping to get in and train on Friday, and hopefully I’ll be involved on Saturday. I’ve only spoken to a few of the boys so far and the physios, but that’s it so far.”