Smith’s time at the Select Car Leasing Stadium could come to an end just months after he returned.
Sam Smith could be the next player to leave League One side Reading with plenty of the Royals’ third-tier rivals interested in him, according to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook.
Having previously graduated from the Royals’ illustrious programme, he signed a three-year contract to return to the Select Car Leasing Stadium in the summer, following the expiration of his Cambridge United contract.
Smith was a true asset while he was at the Cledara Abbey Stadium, so this seemed like a step up for him.
At that moment, the Royals had just been demoted, and with Harvey Knibbs joining the team, it appeared as though the Berkshire side was rising to the occasion after an excruciatingly delayed summer transfer window.
Sam Smith felt let down by Reading
Sadly, it hasn’t shown to be a step up, as evidenced by the club’s performance throughout the majority of the season, off-field problems, and point deductions, which currently have them in the relegation zone.
Smith will be devastated to see that his current team is facing relegation, not just because it might send him back to League Two but also because he would have had great expectations after a very successful window at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Quite a few young faces came in, but with Lewis Wing arriving and some important players staying put in Berkshire, many people would have tipped the club to be at the top end of the division.
The factors mentioned above have played a huge part in where the Berkshire side currently find themselves, in 21st and in real danger of suffering back-to-back relegations.
Smith may love the club, but he could have the opportunity to depart the SCL Stadium this month, with the Royals’ financial issues failing to ease.
Why Sam Smith’s potential departure would be a disaster for Reading FC
Head of Football Operations Mark Bowen (pictured on the right) worked hard to get Smith through the door during the summer.
And he has proved to be a vital addition, with the Royals’ struggles without him during the early stages of the season reinforcing how important he is.
Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan may have shone at times this term, but he’s only 21 and has struggled recently.
Failing to do anywhere near enough to push Smith for a starting spot, it would be a major concern if the latter leaves.
The 25-year-old is an all-round striker, as someone who’s good with the ball at his feet, is strong, an excellent finisher and is able to play up front on his own.
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