Source: Northern_Echo
Smith is wary of return
NEWCASTLE midfielder Alan Smith is expecting to receive a rocky reception when he makes an emotional return to Elland Road on Sunday.[LNB] Leeds supporters have never forgiven Smith for turning his back on his hometown club to join Manchester United, and the 30-year-old was booed repeatedly when Newcastle faced the Yorkshire side in a friendly at St James' Park two years ago.[LNB] Sunday's game represents Smith's first return to Elland Road since he left in 2004, and while Leeds boss Simon Grayson has discussed signing him in a possible loan move, the ex-England international is bracing himself for a rough ride from the club's supporters.[LNB] I don't know what the reception will be, said Smith.[LNB] We played them at St James' Park two seasons ago and I got a bad one then, so I am expecting the same at Elland Road.[LNB] I have been back to watch games, but never as a player.[LNB] It is not something I have really wanted to do to be honest.[LNB] I have a great affiliation with the club, they brought me through the game. I was an academy player and a senior player when I left.[LNB] I am not going to go into details as to the destination I went to. I don't want to touch on it. People will express how they feel and I know that.[LNB]
