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Interviews

Nathan Smith Previews Oxford United

2 November 2017

Interviews

Nathan Smith Previews Oxford United

2 November 2017

Defender, Nathan Smith, has said that his side hope to get back to winning ways on Friday night as Port Vale host Oxford United in the FA Cup.

The U’s will make the long journey North for the first-round of the most prestigious competition in English football.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s matchup against the League One side, Smith hopes that his side can rectify the weekend’s result against Swindon Town.

He said: “After the weekend we were disappointed with the result.

“With the next game coming a day earlier, we are looking forward to it and we want to rectify it by getting a win.”

The 21-year old has experienced playing at the back with several players this season, most recently, Tom Anderson who is currently on-loan from Premier League side Burnley. Nathan has said he has enjoyed playing in defence with Tom as they look to continue their healthy partnership.

“We’ve gelled well”, said Smith.

“We know what eachothers strengths and weaknesses are and I think we’ve shown that if we defend well, we will keep clean sheets.

“That’s what we intend to do. If we do that, we will get results." 

With the Valiants playing their first FA Cup game of the season, last season’s player of the season believes that it’s a great chance to showcase what Vale have to offer with the potential of getting a big team in the future. 

“The FA Cup is the big one”, said Nathan.

“You want to progress and a cup run is always nice. It keeps you looking forward to things and the third round is definitely the aim, it’s where you can get one of the big ties.”

Not getting ahead of himself, Smith showcased the danger that Oxford carry as they sit 10th in the league above.

He said: “They’ll come here and try to play and pass the ball. 

"Hopefully we can put a win together! If that means sticking behind the ball for 90 minutes and nick one, I don’t mind.

“But, hopefully we can put a good performance together and win.”


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