Speaking shortly after signing with Stevenage on a one month loan deal, Connor Smith says he is thankful for the opportunity.
“I was hoping to get out on loan at some point before the season started, obviously now we are a couple of weeks away but just delighted to be here and hopefully get some game time.
“I have had a few years in-and-around the first team at Watford, played a few games here and there and spent some time at Gillingham but I haven’t had enough game time really.
“Playing for the U21s is good but it is not competitive league games, which is what I am after.”
Having only played last week in the Capital One Cup, Smith is fully fit and chomping at the bit.
“I have had a decent pre-season - played some pre-season games, played for the U21s and in the Capital One Cup too so I am ready to go.”
Smith spent time with the Watford first team last season as they won promotion to the Premier League and he says the experience has really helped his development.
“Towards the end of last year I travelled with a lot of squads which was good as we were really pushing on for promotion.
“It was great to be so close to such a good squad with so many great players, all vying for the same goal.
“Getting a first-hand look at the pressure that was on the team and how they dealt with it was really good to be around. The atmosphere in the dressing room was amazing and that experience has really helped me grow.”
The transition between leaving one dressing room and entering another can often be difficult for players but Smith says his familiarity with many of the Boro squad should speed things up.
“I know a few of the lads - Tom Hitchcock through a few of the boys at Watford, who I am mates with. Charlie Lee and Chris Whelpdale from when I was at Gillingham and then I have also been on loan at Wealdstone where Tom Pett was so it shouldn’t be difficult fitting in.