O's Snap Up Chelsea Midfielder

Posted on: Thu 09 Jul 2009

ORIENT have signed Chelsea midfielder Jimmy Smith on a free transfer.

The 22-year-old midfielder swaps Stamford Bridge for Brisbane Road on a two-year contract and he becomes O's boss Geraint Williams' fourth summer signing.

Smith spent the final three months of the 2008/09 campaign on loan with the O's, impressing as Orient climbed away from the relegation zone and into the comfort of mid-table safety.

He played 16 games during that loan spell, showing his versatility as he operated in the centre of midfield and on both flanks.

The Newham-born six-footer came through the ranks with Chelsea, making his sole Premier League appearance on the final day of the 2005/06 season at Newcastle United.

Most of his experience has come from loan spells to Championship clubs, including a lengthy stay at Queens Park Rangers in the 2006/07 campaign.

Smith scored six goals in 31 appearances for the Loftus Road club and he has also been on loan to Norwich City and Sheffield Wednesday.

O's boss Geraint Williams said: "We're delighted to welcome Jimmy back to the club.

"He had a big part to play in our successful end to last season so it's great that he has signed a permanent deal with us.

"It also shows his ambition because he had a year left at Chelsea, but he felt it was the right time to make a break and show that he's ready to play first team football.

"The squad is taking shape and we'll continue to work hard to fill the other spaces."

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Good luck Jimmy! Had some faith in him five years ago but in recent years it certainly became pretty ovbious that he never would make the grade at Chelsea.

Best of luck Jimmy, hoep to see you in the prem again in the future!