Agent tips Smith to stay
14 Jun 2007 - 08:08:21
Manchester United striker Alan Smith is happy to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his first-team place, according to agent Alex Black.
Smith, 26, was reportedly considering his options after becoming concerned with a lack of starting opportunities last season.
The former Leeds United frontman returned from a serious leg injury towards the second half of last season and his form earned a recall to the England fold at the beginning of this month.
And Black claims his client is not seeking a move from the champions despite starting just 43 Premier League games in three seasons at Old Trafford.
"He's still got two years left at arguably the biggest football club in the world," he told BBC Radio Five Live.
"He's got every confidence in himself to stay and fight."
However, Black did admit Smith was concerned that United had not yet taken up the option to extend his contract by a further 12 months to 2010.
He added: "Obviously, you're going to have some question marks in your head as to where that leaves you.
"Alan's gone away on holiday for a few weeks and these are the sort of conversations that probably need to take place face to face.
"I'm sure him and Sir Alex will have a chat at the start of pre-season."
Everton, Middlesbrough, Spurs, Aston Villa and Rangers are all reported to be interested in signing Smith.
