Reading manager Ruben Selles described star striker Sam Smith as’remarkable’ following Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Barnsley, saying he’saw something different.’
The 26-year-old graduated from the Academy but spent two years with Cambridge United, where he scored over 30 goals before returning last summer.
After scoring 16 goals upon his comeback last season, the Mancunian is now more than halfway to that total, with his brace at Oakwell goals six and seven of an injury-plagued season so far.
However, Selles stated that it was not simply his goal-scoring ability that impressed him in South Yorkshire in midweek.
“He delivered a tremendous performance. His thinking and leadership on the pitch were impressive, and I saw something new in him to take the team ahead. I hope he can stay there and continue to excel as a team leader.
Smith is expected to be rested on Sunday when non-league Harborough Town go to Berkshire in the FA Cup second round, although his previous team Cambridge return to League One on Tuesday at the SCL Stadium.
Next Saturday, the Royals go to league leaders Wycombe Wanderers, where Smith scored last season in a 2-1 victory, the club’s first away win in 378 days.
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