Central defender Tommy Smith has returned to training at Playford Road having been given an extended break after his exploits at the World Cup with New Zealand. Smith played in all three matches as the All Whites ended the tournament as the competition’s only unbeaten side, drawing all their games.

Smith told the club site: "I think you need a break as much mentally as physically. I had a week or so off after the end of the season before joining up with New Zealand and then two or three weeks after coming back from the World Cup, which gives time to recharge the batteries.

"I've got a bit of catching up to do with the lads being back for a while and having played a few games, but I'm sure the fitness levels will come back pretty quickly."

Smith looks favourite to replace Damien Delaney in the Town defence alongside Gareth McAuley, the former QPR man having suffered a serious thigh injury which will keep him out of action for three months.

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