MIDFIELDER Michael Smith was delighted to see so many young Swindon Town supporters turn out to watch the team train at the Energy Check County Ground yesterday.

Manager Phil Brown put the club’s current crop of players through their paces on the pitch in front of more 100 fans at an open training session.

As well as being able to watch their side in action, the young supporters were also able to meet their favourite players in a signing session.

Smith, who signed for Town in the summer, says he and the rest of the squad enjoy getting in an amongst the fans when they can.

“It was enjoyable. It was great to see so many fans here and I know we only do it once a year,” said Smith.

“It’s nice for the community and I think it brings everyone together. It gives us a chance to connect with the community.

“I remember being at Sunderland as a kid and supporting the club and being around it. They used to have training days, so you could connect with the players, the manager and the staff.

“You get to see how things are done, so it is a fun day and I remember loving it as a child. We know how the kids feel, so it is brilliant to do.”

Smith returned to Town’s starting XI last weekend for their 2-1 win over Notts County in League Two, which was his first start since Swindon’s trip to Plymouth Argyle in the Checkatrade Trophy on October 9.

After impressing at Meadow Lane, the 23-year-old says it is important Town stay focussed and back up the win with another good result at Colchester United on Saturday.

“A win makes your weekend and if you don’t win, then it ruins your weekend, so to win the game makes your weekend better,” added Smith.

“It was a big result for us as a club. I’m not going to underestimate that, but it has gone now and it’s in the past.

“The only thing that matters now is Colchester on Saturday because we have to back up that win. We haven’t won two games on the bounce all season.

“There are no easy games. Every game has been tough, they’re all battles and you have to earn the right.

“We have to be ready for the battle and we have to go there to put our stamp on things.”

After the trip to Essex, Town return to the County Ground on Saturday, November 10, when they host York City in the first round of the FA Cup.