Sauchie snaps up attacking midfielder from league rivals

The 24-year-old became Fraser Duncan's latest recruit earlier this month when he put pen to paper on a deal to bring him to Beechwood from Premier Division rivals Linlithgow Rose.

And the attacking midfielder says he had no hesitation in signing up to be a part of the gaffer's plans for next season.

Smith told Advertiser Sport: "After speaking to Fraser and seeing what his plans were for the future, I could really see myself fitting into it and being a part of it.

"I had spoken to Linlithgow as well and could see myself being a better fit at Sauchie. It was quite clear Sauchie would be a much better place for me to be playing my football.

"It is strange organising it in the current situation but you do want to be prepared and there's no point in putting it off. Hopefully things could start getting back to normal over the next few months and I much preferred to get something set in stone.

"No matter what level you play at, your life is dominated by it. Not having that at all is a double whammy.

"Not having it is devastating and it's a big hole in your life. I have just been trying to get myself fit."

Former Clyde youngster Smith, who also played with ex-Sauchie boss Iain Diack at Kilsyth Rangers, faced off against the Reds in both Premier Division clashes last season.

It's a mark of the progress made under Duncan and assistant Davie Beaton that a 4-1 reverse in July became a hard fought 2-2 draw in January.

"I played against Sauchie in both games last season and you could see they were quite a good side," Smith added. "They've got a really good set up there and a nice big pitch.

"It's really good to see them use that and get the ball out wide and attack. I was really impressed by how they played on the park. It's clearly a good place to be.

"As any player, I am looking to go and win titles, leagues, and cups. I want to enjoy my football and I want to be playing and scoring goals."