Matt Smith’s path to his first professional contract was not always straightforward.
The midfielder has now signed pro terms with the club, but he’s not about to rest on his laurels as he looks to continue his development.
We spoke to Smith after signing his deal - and this is what he said:
on how it feels to sign his first pro contract…
It’s an amazing feeling. Arsenal is a massive club and I’ve supported it my whole life. I’ve been here since I was seven, so this is a really proud moment.
on how special it is to sign when you’re an Arsenal fan…
There’s been some good times and some bad times, it’s obviously a big change to move from Hale End to here, but I think that I’ve adapted well. Although it took a little bit of time, now I just want to keep on working hard and keep on improving.
on the journey…
It's a proud moment for me and my family. Every day I've been trying to work hard and this is what I've been trying to work hard towards. Now it's obviously paid off, but the hard work's not done yet.
on how he looks back on signing his scholarship…
There were areas of my game that I needed to work on. I feel like I have worked on them, although I could still do more. Last year was harder to get game time, but I'm captain of the 18s now which is obviously a big privilege. But I just want to carry on working hard.
on his targets between now and the end of the season…
I've set myself some targets. I want to get some more goals and assists in the under-18 league and then get some more appearances for the under-23s. Overall, as a team, I'd say our ambition this season is to win the under-18s league.
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