Matt Smith has made more than 160 club appearances in British football, while he also had a successful spell at FC Twente Newport County have signed Wales midfielder Matt Smith following his exit from St Johnstone. The 25-year-old, who has 19 caps, has agreed a two-year deal with the League Two club and becomes new boss David Hughes' first Exiles signing. Smith played 25 times for St Johnstone last season as they were relegated from the Scottish Premiership, but did not feature after being substituted in the first half of a defeat to Dundee in early January and became a free agent this summer. In all he played 60 times for St Johnstone after signing from MK Dons in 2023. "We are delighted to bring Matt on board. As a group of staff, we feel he is a really good signing for us, and he will certainly strengthen the squad," said Hughes, who took charge at Newport last month. "He is still growing as a player and has the desire to improve and progress himself and we are all looking forward to working with him. He is an outstanding character; a good professional and person to have around the squad and the club.'' Smith spent 18 months with MK Dons having joined on a permanent deal from Manchester City in 2022. A City academy product, Smith had loan spells with FC Twente, Queens Park Rangers, Doncaster Rovers, Charlton Athletic and Hull City while at the Etihad. Born in the Midlands, Smith qualifies for Wales through his Blackwood-born grandfather and made his senior international debut under Ryan Giggs in 2018. He was in the Wales squads at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, but has not played for his country since September 2022.
Wales midfielder Smith signs for Newport
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"Matt Smith Joins Newport County After Leaving St Johnstone"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Wales midfielder Matt Smith has joined Newport County after leaving St Johnstone, where he had a challenging season that culminated in the team's relegation from the Scottish Premiership. The 25-year-old has signed a two-year contract with Newport, becoming the first signing for new manager David Hughes. Smith made a total of 25 appearances for St Johnstone last season, but his playing time dwindled following an early January match against Dundee, after which he did not feature again. Having initially joined St Johnstone from MK Dons in 2023, Smith played 60 matches in total for the club before becoming a free agent this summer. His experience in British football is notable, as he has over 160 club appearances and has previously played for teams like FC Twente, where he had a successful loan spell, and Manchester City, where he developed through the academy system.
Manager David Hughes expressed his enthusiasm about Smith's signing, highlighting his potential to strengthen the squad and his positive character. Hughes stated that the coaching staff believes Smith is a valuable addition, noting his desire to improve and grow as a player. Smith, who has represented Wales 19 times since making his senior debut in 2018 under coach Ryan Giggs, has also been part of national squads for major tournaments, including Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup. However, he has not played for the national team since September 2022. With his strong professional background and international experience, Smith aims to contribute effectively to Newport County's campaign in League Two, as the club looks to build a competitive team under Hughes' leadership.
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