SWINDON Town assistant manager Tommy Wright says the club is in talks with Arsenal over a potential early return to the Emirates Stadium for midfielder Matt Smith.

The 20-year-old playmaker arrived at the County Ground on a season-long loan deal in the summer and has been an early contender for Adver Sport player of the year with his confident passing and superb technical ability.

Yet, after John Sheridan revealed Town have been considering sending Smith back to North London early, many fans have been wondering why the Swindon boss would get rid of one of the club’s standout players.

Wright did not confirm Smith would definitely return to Arsenal, but the 56-year-old suggested it would be a “footballing decision” if the move were to be confirmed before Monday night’s 11pm deadline.

Wright said: “I’m not sure at the moment where his future lies, but I think we are in talks with Arsenal about his future. There’s no definite decision yet though.

“It would be a footballing decision if it does happen. It’s to do with the loans really. We probably need more players in different areas than midfield.

“Matt’s been terrific here, and I’ll be sad to see him go if he does go. If he goes, I think he’ll be a loss, but sometimes you have to do that.

“It’s possible we will be looking to bring in another loanee at Matt’s expense. But we will be looking to bring someone in on a permanent deal if anything crops up as well.

“We’re trying to improve to the squad and add to it because with the position we’re in, we need help.”

Following Town’s 1-0 defeat to Hull City on Saturday, Wright also elaborated on the futures of Jonny Smith and Tyler Smith.

Former winger, Jonny was recalled to parent club Bristol City on Friday before making a permanent move to Burton Albion later the same day.

Meanwhile, Sheffield United striker Tyler Smith was the subject of a failed transfer bid from an unnamed club before the Blades turned that down and opted to ensure the 21-year-old spent the rest of the season at the County Ground.

Wright explained: “Jonny came to us and said he wanted to play more regularly. Burton made a permanent offer for him anyway, so Bristol City recalled him.

“There was nothing we could have done about that. Jonny wanted to play, and it was a permanent deal for Bristol City.

“There was an enquiry from another club who wanted to sign Tyler permanently, but Sheffield United didn’t want to do that, so he had to come back here.”