CHAIRMAN Lee Power concedes that Michael Smith’s future may still lay away from Swindon Town despite the club taking up the option to extend the striker’s contract on Wednesday.

Smith was a key figure in the Town side that reached the League One play-off final 12 months ago but made just five appearances for the club during 2015-16 after going out on loan twice.

The 24-year-old failed to hit the back of the net during an indifferent spell at League One rivals Barnsley at the start of the season but enjoyed a more fruitful stint in League Two with Portsmouth during the final three months of the campaign.

Smith returned to Wiltshire following the end of his period at Pompey and Town subsequently triggered the additional one-year clause in his contract, which had been due to run out this summer.

Town chairman Power stated on BBC Wiltshire that he would be more than happy to have Smith back in the Swindon squad for next season but admitted that a move away was still a real possibility.

“Smudger (Smith) is a great kid who works hard. I like Smudger, I wouldn’t be disappointed if we had to keep Smudger again here next year. I think he does a job,” said Power.

“Portsmouth really like him as do two or three other teams.

“If you spoke to Michael I think he would be the first to admit he would like to move away and if that’s the case, then we have to do everything we can to get the right fee and try to do what’s best for everyone.”

Seven players were allowed to leave the club last week, with Fabien Robert the most high-profile departure.

The Frenchman enjoyed a decent season at the County Ground after signing on a free transfer last summer and made 35 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals, including three in his first five games.

Power said that Town again want to focus on youth for next season and 27-year-old Robert did not feature in head coach Luke Williams’ plans.

“I had a long conversation with Luke and it was everyone’s view on the coaching staff that they wanted to look at younger players for next season and it was something they didn’t want to do, it’s as simple as that really,” said Power.

“Luke and the coaching staff sit with Sam Jewell, the chief scout, and with Seamus (Brady, sporting director) and we just go through everything and he was a player that they felt they didn’t want to keep.”