Roker Rapport Podcast: “The son of Pele!” - A Sunderland story with MARTIN SMITH!

[beezer]

Reid didn't rate him for some reason, which was a bit odd because I remember him being cracking when Reid kept us up that first season. Dropped for Gray the next season and a bit part player after that.

I have to say I wasn't a huge fan of Gray (soft as clarts) at the time and loved Smith so was a bit disappointed in that decision. Gray proved me wrong quickly mind and was excellent in that promotion season.

Reid actually stated once or twice that Smith was the most talented player at the club so it was strange he didn’t pick him more often.

By the time the SoL opened he’d started playing as a centre forward and scored some important goals but then fell behind Phillips, Quinn, Dichio and bridges in the pecking order.