The `New Gareth Bale` Joins Coasters On Loan

Dubbed the ‘new Gareth Bale’ as he burst onto the scene in Wales with Wrexham, the 20-year-old will team up with Dave Challinor’s side until the end of January.

Smith signed on at the Racecourse ground as a 10-year-old, progressing through the ranks and made his first team debut for the Welsh side at just 16.

His promising displays in the National League earned him a move to Bristol City last summer and enjoyed a loan spell in League Two with Cheltenham Town towards the end of last season.

Smith becomes the ninth new face through the door at Mill Farm this summer and will be available for selection for tomorrow’s opener at Mill Farm against Boreham Wood.

Manager Challinor told the club`s head of media, Daniel Agnew: We needed something different to what we already had. We wanted to strengthen further in that area with some more penetration and someone who can get in behind. Jonny is quick and will run with the ball and will gives us different options at that end of the pitch.

“He impressed at Wrexham and got a good move to Bristol City and they have really high hopes for him.

“He has only been in for a day but has settled in well. He looks comfortable and confident and he will be one that the fans enjoy watching.

“He has had a full pre-season with Bristol so he is fit and ready to go and there is a good chance he will be involved tomorrow”.