On target!

MATT Smith celebrates his goal against Everton in the FA Cup, fifth-round replay — his last in Athletic’s first team.

Smith’s comeback goal is timely reminder for boss
MATT Smith looked sharp on a scoring return to action for Athletic’s reserves, giving manager Lee Johnson food for thought as he formulates plans for the visit of Carlisle.

Handed a full 90-minute run-out to get beyond the knock he suffered to his knee in the 1-1 draw at Swindon, Smith netted in the first half against Walsall at Chapel Road and was also narrowly off target with a pair of headers.

Out of contract in the summer and rumoured to have attracted the attentions of clubs like Stoke, Birmingham and Celtic as a result of his FA Cup exploits, Smith (23) has eight goals this season in the first team. Johnson is keen for Smith to be back at full fitness. At present Lee Barnard is the preferred strike option in front of Lee Croft, Jose Baxter and Robbie Simpson.

A fully-fit Smith offers an extra dimension in attack due to his height.

With seven games left in the season, he could yet be a major figure for Athletic.

As thoughts turn to the Carlisle test on Saturday, Athletic’s manager says he is not too concerned with the results of rival teams.

“It would be unnatural not to look,” said Johnson, referring to fortunes of rivals.

“But we have to be relentless, to keep ploughing away and picking up points along the way.

“We are unbeaten since I have been here, so I can’t be totally dissatisfied.

“We have got that bit between our teeth and I can feel it. There is a passion from the lads to do well and get out of trouble.”

mattchambers@oldham-chronicle.co.uk