Sheffield United's Tyler Smith opens up on tough loan spell at Swindon after looking to LEAVE in January

Smith scored seven goals in 16 games at the back end of last season, but then played only twice between the end of December and mid-March after apparently being frozen out by former manager John Sheridan.

But he has scored twice in his last three games for relegated Swindon and admitted: “I was looking to go elsewhere [in January] but for certain reasons that didn’t quite happen.

“I knew I’d be here for the rest of the season, which isn’t a problem, I just want to play. Wherever that is, whichever team in whichever league, I just wanted to play football.

“As a striker, and especially with the way I am, I want to play as many games as I can. When I’m not playing, I’m frustrated.

“It’s been a hard, frustrating few months for me – it’s not been easy at all – but I’m back and I’ve scored two on the bounce which I’m happy about.”

Smith, who was born in Sheffield before graduating from United’s academy programme, is highly-rated at Bramall Lane and, at only 22 years of age and with nine goals in 14 starts in League One this season, is ironically the type of player that United would have identified as a potential target under previous boss Chris Wilder.

The ongoing uncertainty over the identity of Wilder’s successor means that Smith’s pathway to the United side may yet become more complicated, but his tough times at Swindon – and coming out of the other side – will only stand him in good stead for his future, wherever that may be.

“It’s been tough,” Smith added, in an interview with the Swindon Advertiser.

“It’s been frustrating. I’ve not been in the team, I’ve not been playing. I’ve been fit for a while, but for whatever reason I’ve not been picked. But I’m here now, I’m playing and I’m scoring goals.

“Some people might have gone under and not been able to deal with it the way I have, which in my situation has helped me a lot.

“I’m a strong person and I can get through tough times. I’ve had a few tough times while I’ve been here, but me being me, I’ll always work hard and stay strong.

“You get out what you put in, and I’ve been working hard – that’s all I can keep doing.”

Smith has previous experience in senior football with Barrow, Doncaster Rovers, Bristol Rovers and Rochdale before joining Swindon for the season, and has benefitted from United’s insistence that their youngsters gain experience out on loan rather than risking stagnation in the U23s.

The likes of Regan Slater and Jake Eastwood have also been loaned out, with United effectively having a roster of players placed with other clubs above their table-topping U23 side – who, incidentally, can seal the league title this afternoon if they beat Millwall away at their training ground.

While you're here, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor