DARTFORD FC | IN CONVERSATION WITH JACK SMITH

by | Feb 16, 2024 | Walking with the Darts

Tuesday evening saw Dartford host Chippenham Town at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Midfielder Jack Smith featured in our Matchday Programme that evening. For those who missed it, here is the full article:

Jack Smith is a man of few words. Like many footballers, he prefers to do his talking on the pitch. The midfielder is doing that talking on the Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park pitch once again, having recently arrived for a second spell.

During his time at the club, Jack has made forty appearances in all competitions. Thirty-five of those have been starting appearances, two of which have been since he returned to the Darts (7 appearances in total so far this term).

Last season he scored four goals for Dartford, three of which came in the National League South.

The timing of our conversation sees the midfielder well, despite having to search for work…

“I’m good thank you Chris. Nothing interesting is going on with me at the moment, just job hunting as I’ve obviously dropped out of full-time football now.”

With him no longer involved in full-time football (for the time being anyway/hopefully), is it easier for him to keep focused on his fitness and wellbeing?

“Well, despite job hunting, keeping myself fit is relatively easy to be honest. I go to the gym daily and I see a Personal Trainer a couple of times a week as well.”

So why did Jack return to the club and re-sign for the remainder of the season?

“I really enjoyed playing here at Dartford last season when I was on loan. That’s the main reason why I signed for the club. I want to help push us back into the playoff positions!”

Despite the club’s current predicament and position in the National League South table, Jack’s intentions are still mathematically possible, so there’s still hope. Does he have any words for the Dartford supporters?

“I do, yes Chris… keep up the great support, it goes a long way.”

SECTION TWO

Faith or Superstition?

Superstition.

Best Memory?

Playing in the FA Cup 3rd Round against Swansea City.

Biggest Influence In Your Career?

My parents.

Best Goal Scored?

Welling at Home last year, has to be!

Most Underrated Player You’ve Played With?

Keiran Murtagh (at Lewes).

Most Underrated Player You’ve Played Against?

Tommy Hughes (at King’s Lynn Town).

Biggest Influence In The Dressing Room?

Luke Allen.

If you were to be involved with a five-a-side tournament, and had to select the best players you have played against, which five players would you choose?

In goal, Tim Krul (at Luton Town). Then Darron Gibson (at Wythenshawe AFC), Ashley Barnes (at Norwich City), Keane Lewis-Potter (at Brentford), and Ivan Toney (at Brentford).

By Chris Palmer

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