With Dartford boss Ady Pennock looking to bolster his side’s attacking options, the signing of striker Dan Smith from Folkestone Invicta during the summer was a perfect solution. And he’s delighted to be here…

“Dartford’s always been known to be a big club at this level and the level above. We have a great group of boys here, and I signed to be challenging for promotion and be at a successful club. Ady the gaffer really sold it to me when I saw him. He sold the vision that he, the players, and the club have, and I want to be a part of that vision.”

Not only does Dan score goals, but he’s more than capable of providing assists as well.

“Playing as a striker is my favourite position. I consider myself to be a classic number nine, which I believe sets me apart from other players in today’s game. I can actually play on either wing and as a number ten, but I’m definitely established as a striker. I like to try a few clever touches in and around the box and, with the players I’ve got around me here, I hope to use my skills to get goals and assists.”

One of Dan’s strengths is that he’s good in the air, as well as being a creative player. He likes to make opportunities for his teammates, as well as scoring goals. However, he’d like to be more clinical in front of goal and has a tendency to beat himself up from time to time, as he has high expectations of himself and his performances.

“I always set myself personal targets each season… how many goals I want to get, etc… And I definitely want to get a few more assists than I got last year. My main target is to help us get promoted back to the National League South though.”

His personal targets may be one reason why he beats himself up from time to time. Yet, he knows that scoring goals at any level isn’t easy in today’s game. He is off the mark though, having already scored twice in the opening five league games for his new club.

Perhaps another reason for his high expectations of himself stems from advice he received during his time at EFL outfit Portsmouth…

“The best advice I’ve ever received in football was from Mark Kelly, who was the Head of the Academy at Portsmouth during my time there. As a first year scholar I was training unbelievably well, even with the First Team. But, in games I kind of went missing a little bit. He said to me, ‘don’t be a training player. It matters what you do on a Saturday. No one cares about training, it’s all about what you do on a Saturday.’ So my mentality shifted from then on, and I started focusing less on improving and more on performing. Those words have always stuck with me.”

That’s advice which Dan tries to live by. And, having suffered a few injuries in the past, he doesn’t push his body over the limit, focusing instead on light gym work and rehabilitation stuff to make sure he’s in a good position to be able to play.

“When pre-season arrives, I go for it though! I have to make sure I’m in pretty good shape for the season ahead. Then each matchday, I’ll try to win and score each time. I also eat healthy food, like pasta at least three-and-a-half hours before kick-off, lots of hydration and energy drinks to try to give me a bit of a kick, then a coffee at some point too.”

As has been mentioned, Dan started his football career with Portsmouth. Whilst he loved it at Fratton Park, it was also one of the most challenging times he’s ever faced…

“Being released by Portsmouth after just one year was one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever faced. I went to Ireland to play, but didn’t get offered a contract. However, coming back to England and becoming a professional was a big comeback for me, which I’m proud of.”

After being denied the opportunity to play for Portsmouth and Cork City, Dan’s career took a turn which saw him play for Bognor Regis Town, Eastleigh, Hereford, Dulwich Hamlet, and Folkestone Invicta. But, injuries became another challenging obstacle for him…

“I’ve had a couple of big injuries. I’ve broken my foot a couple of times, and a few other things which have kept me out for months and months. But I love playing football. It brings out the competitive side in me. It’s not every time where you can try to compete at everything and, obviously, you’ve got a team around you doing exactly the same thing – working towards a common goal of scoring and winning. It’s a great feeling, especially in front of fans who are supporting you and willing you to win.”

He continues, “Trying to work and play football is the easy part. You can do them both reasonably well. The hardest and most challenging thing is trying to balance them with life itself. Seeing friends and family is important, but your social life can suffer sometimes because of the time limits and the fact that you’re tired.”

What about motivation? It’s no secret that the football seasons are long, with games coming thick and fast. How does Dan stay motivated?

“A motivating factor for me is having that goal. As a striker, it’s all about how many goals I can score each season; how many assists I can be involved in; and playing well on a consistent level. Plus, the fans can keep you honest, as they want you to win every game. But the biggest motivation is getting that promotion and finishing as high as possible. And I believe that we’ve definitely got the quality and ability as a team to get promoted. I think we’ll be right up there, but we do need to start getting results now.”

The quality is certainly evident in this team, especially with Ady managing to keep the majority of the squad together. And if needed, Dan is a dab hand in defence too!

“I actually made my debut as a right-back! So, I can definitely do a job there if needed!”

Does he have any advice for those looking to make a career out of the sport?

“You need to be committed. You need to realise that it’s a very big commitment and, the hard work remains the same throughout. You have to do those extra bits if you want to do well. Whether that’s fitness, strength, rehab, or football-work depending on who you are as an individual. You can’t just pop up on matchday and expect to perform at this level, that’s not realistic at all.

“The biggest thing I’ve learned from playing football, is to take my chances as they arise. Not just as a striker, but performing and giving your best whatever the situation.”

SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I’ve got a routine where I do my band-work. I do some injury things and get my ankle strapped. I’ll have similar food, always have pasta about three-and-a-half hours before kick-off. I’ll have a banana just before warm-up and then a gel before we head out into the tunnel. It’s definitely a routine, but not a ritual or superstition, just something I’ve got used to.

Favourite footballer?
David Beckham.

Favourite football team?
I grew up playing for Portsmouth but my family support Southampton! So, I stay out of that one! I don’t really have a favourite team to be honest.

Favourite football moment?
When Aguero scored for Man City to win the title.

Biggest role model?
My Dad.

Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Billericay Town.

Who are your biggest supporters?
My family, parents, brother, and girlfriend.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Both my parents were dancers.

What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
I’m probably not good enough, but I love tennis!

Who will win the Premier League this season?
Liverpool.