Alan Smith looks likely to find himself in a midfield role for the start of the season. Big Sam has a wealth of (injury-prone) riches up front with Viduka, Owen, Martins, Ameobi ,while even Luque has promoted himself in the managers mind with goals in pre-season. Smith then looks likely to be forced to drop into midfield for the season kick-off as Newcastle go into the season with injuries to Barton, Duff and Emre.

According to the Mirror today, Smith is already under no illusions that he’ll be asked to play a number of roles. “Sam said I will be playing in different positions but I will play anywhere a manager wants me to.”

Smith’s versitilty was clearly a factor for Alladyce when he looked to sign the United man stating, “He’s a versatile player who I envisage we will be able to use in a number of positions”.

It’s seems likely then that Smith could be set to partner Geremi in the Newcastle midfield when Big Sam visits Little Sam on August 11. Newcastle have injuries to Barton, Emre, Butt and Duff in that department. Smith is set to make his debut in today’s busy pre-season programme as Newcastle face Sampdoria, which should offer major clues to his role in the first month of the season.