DROITWICH Spa have strengthened their squad with the capture of former Bromsgrove Sporting captain and experienced centre back Scott Smith.
The 26-year-old led The Rouslers to a second place finish in Midland Football League Division One last season and also lifted the Les James Challenge Cup.
But since that success at the Bescot Stadium, Smith has made just two appearances and has fallen out of favour with boss Paul Smith as he is unable to play on Tuesday nights due to work commitments.
Joint-manager Wayne Oliver said his circumstances will remain the same at Droitwich, but he told The Standard he was keen to get someone of Smith’s calibre on board.
“I think Scott played virtually every game for Bromsgrove last year,” Oliver said. “But as he has changed his job, he is now unable to play on Tuesday nights, so that has left him out of favour to play on a Saturday as well.
“I can understand that as Smithy (Paul Smith) wants a consistent side, so we were made aware of his situation. We have monitored it and then approached him and signed him this week.
“He has played at a higher level for the last three seasons and has been at Alvechurch, so he will bring experience and just strengthen the squad.”
Smith becomes the 19th player on Droitwich’s books and Oliver admitted he and Mark Owen still had one more place to fill in their squad.
“We want 20 of the right type of players, so we are not rushing,” he said. “The only place we haven’t got cover for is up front and if anyone of any quality in that area became available then we would seriously look at it and likewise any position.”
Although revealing new recruit Smith was available to face Austrey Rangers tomorrow (Saturday), Oliver said he was reluctant to change his side, which secured back-to-back wins over rivals Fairfield Villa and currently sit third in Midland Football League Division Two.
“To keep the run going is very important as it breeds confidence,” Oliver added.
“We know we will have a different set of problems on Saturday, but hopefully we have got enough to cope with them. But it is a big game.”
