Ted Smith

Ted Smith

Born in Sunderland in 1902, Ted had enjoyed a successful career at Hartlepool, Newport, Portsmouth and Reading before he arrived at Kenilworth Road in the summer of 1929.

Luton manager John McCartney knew what he was getting, having signed him for Pompey previously, a strong and fearless left-back. Because of his aggressive style of play he was susceptible to injury as happened in his second game for the club.

Fighting back to fitness he regained his place for a long run in the side but in his second season injury struck again and on his return found that Tom Hodgson was preferred in his position.

Leaving for Preston at the season’s end he failed to make an appearance there before moving to Bristol Rovers where a further injury ended his career.

Ted worked at Vauxhall Motors after retiring and passed away in the town in 1972.