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Smith on International Return
Wednesday, 29th Oct 2014 19:43

Centre-half Tommy Smith has explained his decision to return to international football with New Zealand only two months after opting to take a year out to concentrate on domestic football with the Blues. Earlier this month, the 24-year-old was named in the All Whites squad for friendlies in China and Thailand.

“I met with the new head coach of New Zealand [Anthony Hudson] recently for a coffee and a chat and I’ve decided to make myself available again,” he told the club site.

“When I made the original decision to take a break for a year I was playing week in, week out for Ipswich and I wanted to focus all my energy into my club performances.

“With New Zealand only having friendlies lined up this year, I believed it would give me the chance to recover after the long flights, but after speaking with the gaffer here he felt it would be good for me to play at international level and get some football.

“I really appreciate the new head coach taking the time out to come and meet me over here.

“He was doing the rounds with the English-based players and I think that shows how much he all wants us on board, and I’m looking forward to representing the All Whites again.”

New Zealand face China in Nanchang on Friday 14th November and Thailand in Bangkok on Wednesday 19th November.


Photo: Action Images



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Vancouver_Blue added 19:52 - Oct 29
Unfortunately I can't see Tommy keeping his place when Tyrone is back from suspension.

He is a very very valuable member of the squad however, so I do hope he doesn't pick up an injury.
2

jamesmostevens added 20:13 - Oct 29
The gaffer also dropped for the first time in ages for the match following the first international break he didn't need to take. It made me laugh at the time and I think it's actually good man management. Fergie should have done the same to Keane after he walked out on Ireland. Hmm...who was the Ireland manager at the time??? :)
0

jamesmostevens added 20:14 - Oct 29
*also dropped him for the first time in ages.
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Phlooky added 20:14 - Oct 29
He has had one or two tough times with the club in the past, all credit to him for coming through so well.
1

Michael11 added 22:30 - Oct 29
I love Tommy. He's Ipswich through and through so hopefully he'll stay put and win his place back in the side somehow. Still has plenty to offer us in the future!
2

Garv added 22:32 - Oct 29
Gotta feel sorry for Tommy in terms of his first team place. I believe he will play in the premier league, whether that will be for Ipswich remains to be seen.
2

carsey added 23:43 - Oct 29
Fair play to Tommy Smith 100% every time he plays. I think it is a shame we don't play 3 centre backs and really attack the opposition but that isn't the MM style.
I can't help thinking another Championship club might make a bid for him in January and who could blame him if he went.
0

runningout added 23:53 - Oct 29
Not going to do himself any favours I'm afraid........
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jas0999 added 06:44 - Oct 30
I am still not convinced a Chambers is the better player, but balance of team had been looking good with chambers at centre back. Tommy would chip n with goals though!
1

Hegansheroes added 07:08 - Oct 30
Think Tommy was desperately unlucky to lose his place in the team & feel he is a better option than Chambers who has been a bit of a liability at times. Tommy also ways in with some pretty decent goals. Re the comment by runningout please read the article, he has spoken to MM about this.
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Bigalhunter added 07:57 - Oct 30
Hegansheroes, since you're dishing out advice, it's 'weighs' not 'ways'
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muzzyitfc added 08:41 - Oct 30
Look out grammer nazi!!!!!!
1

muzzyitfc added 08:46 - Oct 30
Hehehe!
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truckerblue added 09:30 - Oct 30
24 years young and should be the first name on the team sheet in my opinion. One of the best defenders in the league and if he's not playing regularly then he'll be snapped up.
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Surco72 added 10:22 - Oct 30
He is a left footed centre back and he is not as good as Berra hence he is not starting . Great cover and will never let us down and his chance will come again with drop of form or suspensions , future Town captain .
1

brian_a_mul added 10:30 - Oct 30
He is a vital member of the team no way he is going anywhere. Its a long tough season and there will no doubt be injuries, suspensions and rotation required. He will get game time, and the friendlies with NZ will help keep him match fit.

We wouldn't sell him to a rival club from the Championship and PL teams wont be too interested at the moment. If a CD was to leave it would probably be Berra, he is a PL player and playing at his peak. Smith would slot straight back in.
I seriously hope it doesn't come to that!!
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