Smith returns to Dean Court on a permanent deal

Adam Smith (22) is the latest signing for AFCB in the January transfer window as he signs on a three and a half year deal. Cherry supporters will remember him from the time of Eddie Howe's first managerial stint at AFCB, although he probably played as many if more games in the number 15 shirt under Lee Bradbury. He certainly played a pivotal role at right back as the Cherries sought to get into the League One play-offs in 2010-11. As a Spurs player Adam has spent loan periods with Milton Keynes Dons, Leeds Utd, Millwall and Derby County as well as with the Cherries. He is a quick full back that has shown he can deliver telling crosses while also being a stern defender.

The move is likely to see Adam contend for a starting place in the team with Simon Francis. There has not been much cover for Francis since Eddie Howe returned to the club and with the amount of games stepping up again as we approach the Easter it would seem a wise move to get some more support for Francis at this time.

Tricky wingers in the Championship have been able to get round the back of Francis on occasion this season and his pace is something that is perhaps a slight worry to Eddie Howe. I have no worries about the way Adam plays his football. He is versatile and strong in the challenge and should be a good addition to the team.

I was disappointed when Smith decided to go to Milton Keynes having been at Bournemouth at the start of the 2011-12 season, only because I though he was one of the best young full backs I had seen at the club in recent years. Having been capped at U21 for England Smith is still one for the future and if Spurs feel he is not ready to feature in their match squads then I'm very glad that he'll be playing for us rather than one of the other Championship clubs. With Kyle Walker holding the right back position at Tottenham, I am pretty pleased that they can allow Smith to come out on loan as Walker does not give me much confidence even if he may make the plane to Brazil in the summer.