Smith’s England Delight

I’ve already spoken glowingly about the goalkeeping options that Southend have as Daniel Bentley is such a good goalkeeper but behind him, no offence to Paul Smith, we’ve got Ted Smith who continues to make rapid strides in his own development.

Smith was called up for international duty with England at U18 level for the first time last year.

Recently he was called up again and he’s told the official website how much he’s looking forward to hopefully being involved again when England face Belgium at St George’s Park next Tuesday.

He already knows that he’s in the squad or next month’s games against Croatia too.

‘I really enjoyed my first experience with the side. There’s a lot of players from top Premier League clubs there, so it’s nice to get to know them and see how they work and train.

‘It’s testament to the work being done here that I’ve been called up in the first place and that I’ve been able to keep my place in the squad.

‘I’m really looking forward to the games. Belgium have been bringing through some top talent in recent seasons so that should be a great test.

‘Croatia have always been one of the top nations so that should be another good game. I kept a clean sheet on my debut, and it would be great to do that again if I get the chance.’

Due to the bad weather this winter Smith hasn’t had a chance to play much football as most of our U18 games have been called off so meeting up with the England squad at St George’s will be good for him, as will a game if he gets a chance.

Smith also spoke about enjoying his time in the first team squad this season.

He stepped in for his namesake to be Bentley’s deputy when he was injured and he feels confident that he’ll be doing that more next season and I think he’s right as we’ll probably be seeing Paul Smith leave in the summer.