40Alex SmithDefender

The Academy graduate has already made a smooth transition into senior football and was a regular for the Development Squad in the previous two seasons.

In that time, Alex Smith has shown considerable versatility by playing in the centre of the park and on the left of midfield and defence. However, it was from central midfield where he drove the Development Squad forward last term, and in doing so, won many plaudits in the process.  

In breaking from deep, his marauding, effortless running has become a regular outlet for team-mates, and with sound positional sense, control in possession and accuracy in his delivery he is a reliable performer at both ends of the pitch.

Now in his 11th season with the Club, the likeable youngster has certainly risen through the ranks and having impressed throughout, looks set to make a vital contribution in the inaugural Barclays Premier Development League campaign.

Smith is currently on loan at Stevenage. Earlier this season, he joined Leyton Orient in a brief loan.