bournemouthecho.co.uk

Smith "deserves it" after becoming sixth-highest appearance-maker for Cherries

He moved past left back Paul Morrell’s total of 418, and he went to 250 Premier League appearances too, with one of those for Spurs and the other 249 for Bournemouth.

The 34-year-old has recently signed a new deal that extends his stay at Dean Court to the end of next season.

Asked about Smith’s milestone, boss Andoni Iraola said the right back is starting to appreciate his achievements.

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“I think it's important because probably when you are playing, you don't give importance to these things and you don't notice,” he told the Daily Echo.

“But once you start getting to the end of your career, once you finish your career, then you look back and every game you played in the Premier League is very important.

“So now I think it's a moment where I think he starts to appreciate these things. And I think he can get to the top five if he plays some games, it would be lovely for him.

“He also has renewed his contract, so he has a lot more chances to add numbers to that one. And I'm very happy because I think he really deserves it.”

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