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.