Ex-Portsmouth striker primed to move towards Football League return

Robbie Blake conceded the former Pompey striker is set to depart Bognor and move up the pyramid.

Smith was released by the Blues at the end of last season, having made two Checkatrade Trophy appearances.

The striker had spent a large chunk of 2018-19 on loan at the Rocks and made his switch to Nyewood Lane permanent following his Blues exit.

Smith enjoyed a prolific campaign at Bognor, scoring 26 goals before the Isthmian League premier division was declared null and void amid the coronavirus crisis.

The Warsash forward’s exploits have caught the attention of potential suitors – and Blake feels Smith deserves a chance at a higher level.

The Rocks first-team coach said: ‘I said to Dan last summer that it was up to him to prove himself and get back to the level he feels he should.

‘He's scored more than 25 goals in all competitions and, to be honest, he could have had nearly double that.

‘No centre-forward is entitled to score but he generated so many chances that it could have been around the 45-goal mark.

‘He deserves to have a crack higher up and I hope he gets that opportunity. Dan is such a great pro and wherever he gets, he won't be able to get any higher than he does because of a lack of hard work or effort.

‘He doesn't leave a stone unturned in terms of his fitness and the way he looks after himself.

‘Dan is getting a lot of recognition and interest from higher up and that's what you get when you look after.

‘I had long conversations with Dan last summer and told him he needed to be playing senior football. I know some players at our level might be limited, but what they have blood, guts and thunder.

‘You’re guaranteed a level of physicality and I told Dan it would stand him in good stead if he was to push on.’

Blake warned Smith not to make a drastic leap, however.

The ex-Burnley and Leeds forward believes the 20-year-old is at a crucial development stage of his career and playing regularly is the most important thing.

'I've said to Dan that the jump he makes shouldn’t be too much, too early and he needs to keep playing,' added Blake.

‘Between 18 and 23, you're growing up and it's a huge part in football development.

‘Wherever he goes, he needs to be involved in a minimum of 30 games a season. If he goes someone and doesn’t play, it will affect his development.’