Why Michael Smith's contract extension was such an important move for Hearts

A contract extension for a 32-year-old right-back is not normally met with glee and relief. To Hearts fans, however, Michael Smith is no ordinary right-back.
By Joel Sked
Published 8th Jan 2021, 16:45 BST
Updated 8th Jan 2021, 17:17 BST
News of Michael Smith's contract renewal was met with delight by Hearts fans. Picture: SNSNews of Michael Smith's contract renewal was met with delight by Hearts fans. Picture: SNS
News of Michael Smith's contract renewal was met with delight by Hearts fans. Picture: SNS

Responses from supporters to the news the Northern Irishman had agreed a deal until 2022 included:

"This is the best news I’ve had in a while.”

“This guy gets us.”

“2021 instantly 1 million times better than 2020.”

"Regardless of who Hearts bring in (if any) this will be our best bit of business this window.”

"I think I’m attracted to this man in every way possible.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Michael Smith effect

Smith has played 120 times for the Tynecastle side. Picture: SNSSmith has played 120 times for the Tynecastle side. Picture: SNS
Smith has played 120 times for the Tynecastle side. Picture: SNS

That is a mere sample as Hearts fans expressed their delight.

It is rare on social media that news is met with unanimous positivity, but then again that is the Michael Smith effect. The only issue raised was the wish for the deal to be longer.

Since arriving at the club in 2017 he has witnessed plenty. The Ian Cathro debacle, the Craig Levein reign and now Robbie Neilson II. With that, players have come and gone, Smith one of 81 to feature for the club in a competitive fixture during that time.

The 120 times he has pulled on the maroon jersey feels particularly low. It puts him 163rd in the list of Hearts all-time competitive appearance holders. The same number as Gary Naysmith, one fewer than Michael Stewart and seven fewer than Ruben Palazuelos.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Perhaps it is because the last three and a bit seasons have felt as long, as frustrating and as trying as Steve Martin and John Candy journey to get back for Thanksgiving in Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

Stalwart and fans’ favourite

But with Smith, he has been the one person who has been reliable throughout all, a spec of gold floating amongst a flood of murky water.

He is very much in the stalwart category at the club, as well as a fully-fledged member of the fans' favourite club.

Keeping Smith at the club is a simple, straight-forward but smart decision.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He may not wear the captain’s armband and bark and shout but he is a leader at the club. His professionalism, his discipline, his consistency and all-round standards are the perfect example for young talent at the club, something Neilson alluded to when speaking to the club’s official website.

“He’s been a mainstay from when he joined Hearts and I’ve really enjoyed working with him since I’ve come in,” he said, “and I know he’s a player the younger guys look up to as well.”

The Smith presence

Smiths brings continuation. An individual who gets the club, which is important on three counts.

Firstly, he understands what Hearts fans want. Secondly, he is a presence and touch point for new players, to help them understand the team. Lastly, it is imperative fans have players who they can relate to when they turn up each week – or switch on their laptops.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Of course, there is also his on-field contribution. Right-back, centre-back, left-back or midfield. Fans know they are almost guaranteed, at the very least, a good performance.

And they will be assured of that until 2022, and longer if they get their wish.