High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Alan Smith (born 28 October 1980) is an English professional footballer of English Football League Championship side Newcastle United. Smith first came to prominence as a forward during his early days at Leeds United before Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson started using him in a more withdrawn role and turning him into a midfielder. Smith has earned a reputation as a hard-tackling midfielder and is noted for his high work rate. Born in Rothwell, Leeds, West Yorkshire, Smith started his career with Leeds United and made his first team debut against Liverpool, aged 18, also scoring in that match. He went on to become an undisputed first- choice, as the side consolidated in the domestic and European fronts, reaching the semifinals of the 2000-01 Champions League. Smith was part of an offensive line that included Michael Bridges and Australian Mark Viduka.