Matthew Smith

Matthew Smith, the 24-year-old central midfielder for Wigan Athletic, is quietly crafting a reputation in League One with his composed and efficient style of play. His ability to retain possession is almost unparalleled, making him a reliable fulcrum in the middle of the park. His passing is sharp and progressive, frequently breaking lines and setting up promising attacking moves. Smith's creativity in chance creation adds a valuable layer to his game, suggesting a player with a vision beyond his years. However, his defensive contributions, particularly in one-on-one and penalty area situations, leave room for growth. His ball recovery is solid, though, indicating a knack for regaining possession. While his goal threat isn't particularly pronounced, his role as a midfield orchestrator is where he truly shines, dictating the tempo and linking play with aplomb. In this scout report, Smith's player stats paint a picture of a midfielder with a promising blend of creativity and control, though he could benefit from beefing up his defensive tenacity to become a more complete player.