DAN SMITH has been recalled by Sunderland.

The loan defender had been due to complete a second month with Town after Saturday's visit of Rotherham.

Now, the 19-year-old left-back could be set for a Black Cats Premiership debut against Bolton at the Reebok on Saturday.

Galpharm chief Peter Jackson explained: "Dan has done well with us and, hopefully, he can now break into the Sunderland team for a good spell.

"While there had been rumours among the media, Kevin Ball (Sunderland's caretaker boss) didn't contact me until last night to say he wanted to take Dan back to the Stadium of Light.

"It sounds very much as though they want to involve him at Bolton and, if that's the case, we wish him well."

Smith made seven starts for Town after a debut substitute appearance against Blackpool.

"Dan's first start with us was a win and then, after we'd lost at Tranmere, he helped us pick up nine points in a week with three clean sheets," added Jackson.

"I've been very pleased with him and the only reason I left him out at Hartlepool was because I felt we needed more experience.

"Dan is very much a player for the future and I know he has enjoyed his time with us."

Rotherham did Town a big favour last night, beating play-off challengers Oldham 2-0 with an own goal from Chris Swailes and a late strike by Paul McLaren.

The result leaves seventh placed Oldham five points adrift of Town on the same games played.

"It was a good result for us but we have to make sure we do our own business solidly when Rotherham come here to face us on Saturday," added Jacko.