Smith International Retirement Threat Claim - Ipswich Town News
Town centre-half Tommy Smith threatened international retirement during the club-versus-country row ahead of New Zealand’s World Cup play-off against Mexico last month, according to the New Zealand Herald.
The All Whites, who lost the two legged play-off 9-3 on aggregate, strictly enforced FIFA rules which meant that Smith was unable to play in Town’s game at Blackpool on November 9th and make their LA training camp before a midnight deadline.
The 23-year-old, who ultimately skippered the side in both legs, is said to have felt that there was no need for him to arrive for duty five days prior to the first game in Mexico City.
Smith reportedly suggested he would pull out of the All Whites squad if he wasn’t allowed to play for Town and even went as far as to threaten international retirement before relenting.
A-League side Wellington Phoenix, who had six players in the squad, also took issue with the policy before coming to a compromise with New Zealand Football.
Smith has won 27 full caps, scoring two goals, and represented the All Whites at the 2010 World Cup and played for their U23 side at the 2012 Olympics.
Meanwhile, Wolves have opened talks with former Blues loanee Richard Stearman regarding an extension to his contract, which is up at the end of the season.
"He is in his final year and he's a player we're very interested in going forwards with in the future," manager Kenny Jackett said.
"He's had a good season so far and, as a club, we're aware of the situation and we've discussed it."
Blues boss Mick McCarthy is a big fan of the right-back or centre-half and may be interested in a January approach for the 26-year-old should no agreement be reached with his current club having been priced out of a move in the summer.
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