Smith shuns social media to avoid abuse from fans

BOURNEMOUTH defender Adam Smith has admitted that his love of football has been dulled by abuse.

The full-back is the Cherries’ longest-serving player and has been involved in two historic promotions to the Premier League.

But he said: “It isn’t just the pressure but the abuse. It is grinding. The abuse that players get.

“No other industry gets it. You wouldn’t walk down the street and abuse a trader or something.

“But if you are a footballer you get abused left, right and centre. Twitter, Instagram, at the stadium.

“I know I’m lucky to be a footballer but I don’t think it is acceptable.

“I still enjoy it but there are some moments where I don’t enjoy it.

“I try to stay off social media but for the young lads it must be tough.

“Even when you are out and about you get abused.

“I love football and enjoy it but I wish I could take a little time out.”

Smith, who recently reached 350 appearances for the club, has two young children – and that helps put his footballing career in perspective.

“I love being a dad,” added Smith. “Football doesn’t really mean anything when you have family.

“Football is some people’s lives, they live for it, but since I’ve had kids, it is definitely not my No.1 priority. They make it good to switch off.”

The Cherries’ form might have taken an upturn – with three victories in their last four matches – but Smith admits there are no easy days as a right-back in the Premier League.

Smith, 32, added: “Back in the day you felt like the top five teams had top wingers but now it is every team.”