Sheffield United youngster Tyler Smith says he tried to end his loan spell at Swindon Town in January.
Smith is coming towards the end of a season-long stint with Swindon – who were relegated from League One on Saturday.
After four goals in his first nine matches, the striker found himself out of the team following the appointment of John Sheridan as manager in November.
Things got so bad under Sheridan that Smith tried to end his temporary stay at The County Ground early.
“I was looking to go elsewhere at the time, but for certain reasons that didn’t quite happen,” the 22-year-old told The Swindon Advertiser.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
“It’s been a hard, frustrating few months for me. It’s not been easy at all. But I’m back and I’ve scored two on the bounce, which I’m happy about.”
Smith continued: “Some people might have gone under and not been able to deal with it the way I have, which in my situation has helped me a lot.
“I’m a strong person and I can get through tough times. I’ve had a few tough times while I’ve been here, but me being me, I’ll always work hard and stay strong.”
Could Tyler Smith get a chance at Sheffield United?
Smith is one of several young players from Bramall Lane currently out on loan in the EFL.
The most likely of them to possibly be playing in the Blades first team next term is Rhys Norrington-Davies.
United will be back in the Championship following their relegation from the Premier League and Norrington-Davies has already been impressing in the division in 2020/21 with Luton Town and now Stoke City.
The Wales international can play as either a left-back or in a back three. He’s been tipped for game time with the Blades next campaign after signing a new contract.
Unfortunately for Smith that seems less likely.
The Sheffield-born forward has never played for his boyhood club – where there is fierce competition upfront currently.
United have six attackers on their books as things stand. Smith would almost certainly be behind all of them in the pecking order.
