When Michael Smith arrived from Peterborough United in the summer of 2017, it’s fair to say that he couldn’t have envisioned himself playing anywhere other than right back for Hearts. He’s even claimed a few Northern Ireland caps since moving to Edinburgh.
Is he currently the greatest utility player in the Scottish Premiership?
If his performance in the most recent Edinburgh derby is anything to go by, it’d be hard to argue against. After all, the first time he’d moved in the centre of the backline in this new sweeper role, and impressed, was when the Jambos ended Celtic’s record-breaking domestic unbeaten run.
He even slotted in at central midfield last season, proving he’s one of the best footballing assets that Hearts have.
The emergence of both Jamie Brandon and Marcus Godinho have raised question marks as to whether Smith’s deal ought to be extended, two promising young full backs.
However, it should be a resounding yes. Ask the majority of Hearts fans to give him a rating from any game and you’d be lucky to get anything under seven.
It’s a no brainer to extend Smith’s deal. He’d certainly be a big loss for the Jambos on a free transfer.