BLACK CATS NAB DEFENDER SMITH
Ex-Ipswich man seals deal
SUNDERLAND have bolstered their squad for the end of season run-in by snapping up former Ipswich Town defender Tommy Smith – and he’s targeting promotion to the Championship. The 29-year-old has joined on a deal until the end of the season, subject to international clearance.
The New Zealand international provides cover following a potentially season-ending injury to Bailey Wright. The 27-year-old centre-back, who joined the Black Cats on loan from Bristol City last month, could miss the rest of the season after suffering an ankle injury in last weekend’s 1-0 win at Oxford.
Smith brings plenty of experience to the Stadium of Light and that could serve Sunderland well as they push for promotion from the third tier.
Experience
The Black Cats were fifth heading into the weekend, just three points off top spot as the race for Championship football hots up.
Smith spent 11 years with Ipswich, scoring 23 goals in 267 appearances in all competitions, before joining Colorado Rapids in January 2018.
He left the MLS club at the end of last season.
“I know a lot about the club – the history and the fan base,” said Smith, who played for New Zealand in the 2010 World Cup finals.
“I am delighted to be a part of it and hopefully I can help push the team up towards the Championship.
“I’ve heard about the Stadium of Light and the atmosphere that is generated and I am just really excited to step out there for the first time and hopefully success can follow.
“I see myself as a leader on and off the pitch so hopefully I can use that to be a good addition to the squad.”
Leader
Vastly experienced Sunderland manager Phil Parkinson, who has overseen a major upturn in results in the last couple of months, added: “I am delighted with the signing of Tommy Smith.
“He is a good addition to the squad and will add competition to the back three.”