How has Michael Smith’s career at Sheffield Wednesday unfolded since his 2022 arrival? The 33-year-old English striker has become an important figure at Hillsborough, contributing both goals and assists while bringing valuable experience to the Owls’ attack.
Mcihael Smith joined Sheffield Wednesday in June 2022 after a successful spell with fellow Yorkshire club Rotherham United. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), Smith offers a physical presence up front that has proven valuable for Wednesday in the challenging environment of the EFL Championship.
From Wallsend to Wednesday
Smith’s football journey began far from Sheffield, at Wallsend Boys Club in the northeast of England. Born on October 17, 1991, in Wallsend, he embarked on a professional career that has seen him represent numerous English clubs across different tiers of the football pyramid.
His early professional years included stints at Darlington and Charlton Athletic, though his time at the latter was characterized by loan moves rather than first-team appearances. These formative experiences at clubs like Accrington Stanley, Newport County, and AFC Wimbledon helped shape the striker who would eventually find his way to Hillsborough.
Finding form at Rotherham
Before donning Sheffield Wednesday’s number 24 shirt, Smith enjoyed his most productive spell at Rotherham United. He joined the Millers in January 2018 and went on to make 191 league appearances, netting an impressive 52 goals during his time there.
This prolific period established Smith as a reliable Championship-level striker. His performances at Rotherham caught the attention of Sheffield Wednesday, who moved to secure his services when the opportunity arose in 2022.
Impact at Hillsborough
Smith’s contribution to Sheffield Wednesday has been significant during the 2024-25 Championship campaign. Despite not always being a guaranteed starter, he has featured in 41 matches, starting 16 and coming off the bench 25 times.
His eight goals and four assists represent a valuable contribution to the Owls’ offensive output. As a right-footed striker with considerable aerial ability, Smith offers tactical flexibility to the Wednesday attack, capable of leading the line or providing support to fellow forwards.
Playing style and attributes
At 33 years of age, Smith brings veteran savvy to complement his physical attributes. His 6’3″ frame makes him an effective target man, particularly useful when Sheffield Wednesday need to play more direct football.
Smith’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game has been evident throughout his time at Hillsborough. While not the fastest striker in the Championship, his positioning and experience allow him to find scoring opportunities, as evidenced by his eight-goal return this season.
Smith’s role in the squad
The 2024-25 season has seen Smith adapt to a role that includes significant time as a substitute. This speaks to both the competitive nature of Sheffield Wednesday’s squad and Smith’s professionalism in embracing whatever role benefits the team.
When called upon, whether from the start or off the bench, Smith has proven capable of making an impact. His four assists demonstrate his willingness to create for others rather than focusing solely on his own goalscoring tally.