What a turnaround for Liam
HEARTS defender Liam Smith admits he is pinching himself after completing a remarkable ascent from East Fife to the Europa League in the space of just 14 months.
Following such an improbable journey, it is little wonder that the gifted youngster is allowing himself to tentatively dream about the prospect of crossing swords with Euro 2016 superstar Dimitri Payet.
Smith was dispatched to East Fife during the 2014/15 campaign, under the watchful eye of former Jambo Gary Naysmith, to experience the bruising realities of first-team football against the grizzled opponents of League 2.
It is a formative experience he cites as pivotal in his development and, indeed, he has gone from strength to strength after his stint in Methil, making 11 appearances for Hearts last term and receiving his maiden Scotland Under-21 call-up in March.
Another major career goal was ticked off in Tallinn on Wednesday evening when he made his European debut, turning in a confident display in a convincing 4-2 win over FC Infonet.
“To play in a game like that wasn’t something I was expecting at this stage – I was surprised – but I feel like I took my opportunity well,” Smith reflected.
“It was a really proud moment for me and maybe not something that will come round every year.
“I’m still only 20 and it is something really special to have on my CV going forward.
“It wasn’t too long ago that I was playing for East Fife, and they were brilliant for me.
“That was absolutely massive in my development. If I hadn’t made that move then I don’t think I would have pushed on they way I have.”
A trip to the island of Malta is up next for the Jambos on Thursday evening when they face an reportedly competent Birkirkara side in the second qualifying round.
Should they progress, the likes of Lille, Spartak Moscow and Payet’s West Ham United await in the next round, where Hearts would be unseeded.
It is a tantalising prospect which is only intensified by the tales of facing Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool he has heard from team-mates, past and present.
“Playing against Dmitri Payet? Well, he’s absolutely torn up the Euros so it would definitely be a challenge!” Smith smiled.
“It would be amazing to come up against someone like that.”