Jimmy Smith will play his final game as a professional footballer on Saturday afternoon as the 34-year-old retires from the professional game.
Lacing up his boots for the last time against Stockport County, this will be the midfielder’s 513th and final professional appearance of his career.
Speaking to ytfc.net following the announcement, Jimmy said; “I’ve had two very different seasons in my time at Yeovil. The first one was unbelievable, to play for this club I’ve always thought so highly of throughout my career was special.
“I always mentioned to Terry on occasions ‘when you going to sign me,’ as bit of banter and when I had to opportunity to come here, I was buzzing.
Jimmy made an immediate impact when signing, scoring on his debut against AFC Fylde, just one of the “fantastic times” he enjoyed in green and white.
“I have a good relationship with the gaffer and Terry and have learnt so much from them.
“What we created as a team, staff, and fans together was amazing, playing home and away, the fans are truly the 12th man, which is something we have missed this season.
“Sharing the moment with our fans is something will always stick with me, especially when we sing our song all together. I was gutted we couldn’t achieve promotion in the play offs.”
This year has been particularly difficult for Town, both on and off the pitch, but the unity within the ranks has pulled the Glovers through to the end of the season.
“Not getting promotion was my reason to come back again this season, even though it is three hours from my home.
“I was committed to achieving that because I believed we could do it, but it turned out to be the worst year of my life, COVID, losing our captain, it’s been a very hard year for us all but we have stuck together through all of this because of the love and strength we have for each other.”
Playing from the Premier League to the National League, the 34-year-old has enjoyed a spectacular career spanning 16 seasons.
Starting on the books at Chelsea, Jimmy made one competitive appearance for the Blues, coming on as a substitute for Arjen Robben against Newcastle at St, James’ Park. Returning to where it all started, Jimmy will now take up a coaching role with this season’s Champions League finalists.
Sending his parting message to the club, Jimmy said, “I wish the gaffer, Terry, and the squad all the best for next season. With the fans back, pushing this team up the league, hopefully they can gain promotion, which this town deserves.”
All at Yeovil Town would like to congratulate Jimmy on his new role and thank him for his service in Somerset.
