Smith backed to help keep Fulham up

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Matt Smith can offer Fulham a perfect boost in their bid to claw away from the relegation zone, according to Bristol City boss Steve Cotterill.

The 25-year-old netted 13 goals in 20 appearances during a recent loan spell at City as such a hit at Ashton Gate that his Robins team-mates formed a guard of honour after his last game for the club.

Smith’s popularity was also underlined by a stream of glowing tweets from team-mates sorry to see him go.

And City boss Cotterill is in no doubt Fulham are welcoming back a great asset.

“He can do well in the Championship,” Cotterill said.

“He hasn’t done too badly here and this league’s not full of mugs. I think if you have a look at Matt’s record at Leeds United, he was first class.

“It’s not for me to pick Fulham’s team and say anything that could potentially put Kit under any more stress.

“But what he did here for us has been first class. He’s a great boy and we wish him all the best.

“We don’t want to put any more pressure on Fulham because they’ve been down there fighting for their lives and it will be up to Kit if he decides to pick him and it will be up to Matt to continue his good form if he does get that opportunity. We’ll always look out for him.”

Cotterill admitted he planned to bring Smith on against Rochdale at the weekend to receive some deserved acclaim from the crowd, but had to bring on midfielders because the game was so tight.

It sums up how much Smith’s contribution has been valued.

“It’s quite sad for us he’s leaving,” said the City manager. “He gave a speech to the boys in the dressing room and he’s been a really big character, not just in size, but with his humour and banter with the lads.

“He’s come in and settled in marvellously well. He will be missed because he’s been fantastic for us.

“We thank Fulham for letting us have him and we wish them and him all the best for the rest of the season. Hopefully he will go back there, hit the ground running, and score a few goals for them.”

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