Smith sets new goals

9:43am Friday 25th April 2008

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Brentford maestro Gary Smith has pledged to answer his manager's call for more goals from midfield after putting his Terry Butcher-induced nightmare behind him this season.

The 24-year-old has bagged just one goal in 24 starts this season since turning over a new leaf under Andy Scott.

Scott believes his side cannot afford to rely simply on the goalscoring exploits of Nathan Elder, Alan Connell and Glenn Poole if they are to mount a promotion challenge next time round.

He has ordered his team to become more of a threat from set-pieces, and Smith reckons he can deliver the goods after a baron spell in front of goal in this campaign.

"It is shocking that I haven't scored more goals, to be honest. Just the one from me is not good enough," he said.

"I have scored goals wherever I have been, but it just hasn't happened for me.

"I have had a good season, but you still need goals.

"I am an attacking player and have been given responsibility for taking set-pieces, so it is something I have to work on in the summer.

"Hopefully, more goals next season will help me land another extension to my contract and a promotion on top of that would make it perfect."

Smith has endured a season of contrasts switching from MK Dons in the summer.

He made only three starts under Butcher before the former England captain's sacking in December, but has become a fans' favourite after playing a significant role in helping the Bees launch an unlikely play-off surge.

Scott described his performance in last week's 2-2 draw with Bradford City as outstanding, but Smith is just happy to be back playing again.

"I think I only played one full game under Terry. I went to see him a few times about it and he just told me to keep working at it," he added.

"I thought I was doing all right, but it was obvious he didn't rate me at all - it was frustrating.

"He didn't like the fact I was travelling from Northampton to work every morning.

"When Andy took over, it was the first real chance I have had to play regularly and it was easy to sign a contract extension after that.

"I am injury free now - which I haven't been for few seasons - and am really enjoying my football.

"It is a massive shame the season has to end now because I feel it has only just started for me."