VERY CHEAP TALK

Last updated : 21 July 2004 By Editor

Some turnaround from his “I’d never play for United” days on Sky. Smith said:

"I did everything I could for Leeds, but as the season drew to a close I saw a different side to the game. Prior to that I had just enjoyed playing for my local team - a team I cared about.

“Then it became obvious they needed to get some money in. Leeds had paid nothing for me because I came through the academy ranks, so they knew whatever fee they received would be pure profit.

"Once money came into it from their point of view, it was difficult to accept."

"Once I had decided to leave, I only wanted to join one club - and that was Manchester United.

"I spoke to Rio Ferdinand about it but I think everyone appreciates that for me, coming from Leeds, the step was a bit different than it was for him.

"But if you are a certain type of character, you can make the step easily.

"I did everything I could for Leeds but my passion and commitment for Manchester United will be exactly the same.

"I haven't been here long but I have already seen how professional the players are and how much people want to win trophies.

"The players here believe in their own ability and that of their team-mates.

"What other clubs do and how much they spend doesn't bother anyone here.

"We believe we have a good enough squad to win trophies and I am sure that is what we will do.”

Fergie said:

“I see Alan as an old-fashioned centre-forward, an aggressive front-running player. The fact he can play in other positions is coincidental as far as I am concerned.

"I truly believe he will be a tremendous player for us. He has five years experience in the Premiership and the Champions League and he is still only 23.

“And aside from his ability, I couldn't be more impressed with his character. I knew a move to us from Leeds would be difficult and it takes courage and bravery to make the decision he has.

“It would have been easier to take up one of the other half-dozen offers he had but when you see the kind of enthusiasm Alan had to come here, you are getting someone of real substance.

"We've discussed the issue of where Alan will play, and I see him as a centre-forward. You need four strikers in the game today, and picking two is a nice problem to have.”

Despite that, RI’s info from DeepThroat at the time of the signing was that Fergie viewed Smith as a midfielder in the longer term. With Butt leaving and Rooney possibly coming in that could yet make sense.