Rest will benefit Town's Alex Smithies

May 25 2009 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

The Town man, who has one Under 19 cap after regular outings in the lower age groups, could come back into the reckoning if England win the mini league and make the eight-strong championship finals to take place in Ukraine in July.

“Whether or not that happens, I’m certain Alex will get more chances at international level,” said Clark. “I know he’ll be disappointed to miss out, but in Alex’s long-term interests, I think his withdrawal is the best course of action because it gives him the chance of a proper break from football.

“He needs that for mental as well as physical reasons.

“If you’re not careful, young players can get on a treadmill of busy seasons with their club then international football, and four of five years down the line, you get burn-out.”

Newcastle down – see Pages 32 & 33.