Smith Award In Jeopardy

Last updated : 23 May 2004 By Kevin Markey

Smith is the first player in Leeds' history to win the Supporters Club's award for a second successive year.

The fans are resigned to him leaving and had planned to invite him back for a presentation early next season.

But that was before he refused to rule out a move to Old Trafford, and the situation will be discussed at the Supporters Club's next executive meeting on Thursday.

Smith is prepared to risk the hatred of the Elland Road faithful by signing for Manchester United despite interest from Liverpool, Everton and Middlesbrough.
 
The striker has told friends that he fears he will have to live in Manchester given the depth of feeling that his move will generate in West Yorkshire.

But that has not prevented him from telling Leeds a move across the Pennines is the only option he will consider.

Two years ago Rio Ferdinand was player of the season, but when he was sold to Manchester United, he received no invitation to the awards night either.