Korey returns with a promise to fans

HAPPY TO HELP: Athletic midfielder Korey Smith.

KOREY Smith must have felt the weight of expectation almost as much as his manager last season.

Smith (22) came on loan on Johnson’s recommendation a week before he had even landed the job.

Though Smith’s career at Norwich had stalled, Johnson knew his qualities having seen him on the field many times on loan at Yeovil.

Straight into the team he came against Hartlepool. Johnson’s first in charge as the youngest manager in the Football League, it was a match that carried with it considerable pressure from Athletic’s perspective.

At that stage, following a fourth defeat at home, the heat was on. Athletic were in the relegation zone and anything but a victory over Hartlepool would have been disaster.

Smith shone, taking full control of the midfield in Athletic’s 3-0 win — and Johnson was immediately up and running.

No wonder the manager was so set on bringing him back permanently for 2013-14.

“I really enjoyed it last time; that is a big part of the reason I’m back,” said Hatfield-born Smith.

“We were on the verge of relegation then and there was a lot of pressure on us. It was a hard time, but also an enjoyable time because we did well.

“I knew the situation at the club when I joined and people here told me exactly what we needed to do — get out of the relegation picture. I was happy to be able to do that.”

Smith, who had other better-paying offers, has no regrets about leaving Norwich. He will find it difficult to recreate the success he managed at Carrow Road, with back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League.

“I wouldn’t say I am sad about leaving,” he added. “I had a great time at Norwich and I met some great

people. I have won things and gained great experience. I am nothing but grateful - but I had been there for six years. It’s exciting to move to a new place.”