Matthew Smith joined Newport County in July 2025 on a two-year contract following a successful spell with Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone. The experienced Welsh international midfielder arrived at Rodney Parade with extensive EFL and Scottish Premiership experience, having represented a number of clubs in England and abroad.
Born on November 22, 1999 in Redditch, England, Smith began his football journey with West Bromwich Albion before joining Manchester City's academy in 2013. He made his senior debut at the age of 18 when he joined Dutch side FC Twente on loan during the 2017-18 season. Smith made 37 appearances during his time in the Netherlands and helped the club secure promotion to the Eredivisie.
Smith returned to England and continued his development with Queens Park Rangers, before gaining further experience with Charlton Athletic, Hull City, Doncaster Rovers and Milton Keynes Dons. During his time with Doncaster Rovers in 2020-21, he made 40 appearances in League One, while he scored twice and registered two assists in 21 appearances for MK Dons during the following season.
In July 2023, Smith moved to St Johnstone, where he established himself as a regular in the Scottish Premiership. He made 54 league appearances across two seasons, scoring once and providing four assists before making the move to Newport County.
Smith made his Newport County debut in the EFL Cup against Barnet on July 29, 2025, before making his League Two debut in the opening-day draw with Notts County.
During the 2025-26 season, Smith made 21 League Two appearances, including 13 starts, and played 1,041 minutes. He provided two assists and received five yellow cards. He also featured in the EFL Cup, taking his total appearances for Newport County across all competitions to 22.
Smith's experience and composure in midfield proved valuable during his first season at Rodney Parade, with his ability to play in both central and defensive midfield positions providing Newport County with additional tactical flexibility.
At international level, Smith has represented Wales from under-17 through to senior level. He made his full international debut in 2018 and has earned 19 caps for Wales.
Now 26, Smith enters his second season with Newport County bringing significant experience of English and Scottish football, as well as international football. His passing range, tactical awareness and ability to dictate play from midfield make him an important member of the squad heading into the 2026-27 campaign.
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