Alan Smith ready to leave Newcastle to prolong his playing careerPublished on Friday 6 January 2012 10:33
ALAN Smith has hinted he’s willing to take a pay cut and leave Newcastle United after failing to break into Alan Pardew’s side.
The midfielder has six months left on his St James’s Park contract.
And the 31-year-old is free to talk to other clubs about a summer move.
However, Smith could yet leave in this month’s transfer window if a deal can be reached over his sizeable wages, with Ipswich Town having been linked with a move for him.
Smith – who has made just two substitute’s appearances this season – believes he still has a lot to offer at Premier League or Championship level.
“You want to prove to people, and to yourself, that you’re still a good player,” said Smith.
“I’ve got 19 England caps, not one or two, so I must be able to play a bit.
“But the longer it goes on, you lose your identity. I’m not happy just to stay and pick up my wages – it’s not what I’m about.
“I can talk to other clubs with my contract being up, and if I go, wages won’t come into consideration.
“I can still do a job in the Premier League or the Championship – I just need that chance.”
While frustrated at a lack of football, Smith stressed he had “total respect” for manager Alan Pardew.
希望真係可以成事啦，對佢本人同球會都好。
