Sheridan heralds Smith’s enthusiasm at Notts County

(Picture: Action Images)

Notts County manager John Sheridan has praised veteran midfielder Alan Smith, and says his enthusiasm sets a great example for his team-mates.

Smith, 36, has played for some huge clubs throughout an illustrious career, such as Leeds, Manchester United and Newcastle, but made his sixth appearance for the The Magpies in the EFL Trophy on Wednesday.

“What I love about him is enthusiasm,” said Sheridan. “It is like he is making his debut.

“I am watching him and how he wants to do everything right and if not, he’s disappointed.

“It is a different world with some players today.”

That game ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Sunderland’s under-21 side, but Sheridan found some positives, despite the loss signalling County’s exit from the competition.

The boss said: “He [Smith] was a quality player in his day and I think he showed at Sunderland he can still probably play up front.

“I didn’t want to take him off but he came off with cramp.”

Since joining the club in May 2014, Smith, who has also represented MK Dons in the EFL, has gone on to make 50 appearances for Notts, and will hope to make Saturday’s match-day squad for the trip to Blackpool.