Former England star Sue Smith leaves Doncaster Rovers Belles

Former England star Sue Smith has left Doncaster Rovers Belles, the club has confirmed.
Sue SmithSue Smith
Sue Smith

Smith, who won 93 international caps, revealed at the end of last season that she was considering her future in the game following a difficult 2016.

The 37-year-old took a back seat from playing last year following the death of her father in February. A calf injury also cut short her comeback in July.

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“Doncaster Rovers Belles can confirm that Sue Smith has left the club following the 2016 season,” said Belles on their official website.

“Smith has been a mainstay in the Belles dressing room since the former England international joined the club from Lincoln Ladies.

“Joining in 2011, Smith took the historic number 8 shirt which had previously been worn by other Belles legends in the form of Vicky Exley and Sheila Edmunds and became an instant fans’ favourite.

“There have been many highlights of Smith’s time with the Belles but her 12 goals in 22 appearances in the 2015 WSL 2 season helped catapult the club back into WSL 1 after a two-year absence.

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“With 93 caps for England, Smith is one of the most experienced players to grace the Keepmoat turf and has been a pleasure to watch and work with during her time in Doncaster.

“The club would like to thank Sue for all her efforts both on and off the pitch during her time at the club and wish her nothing but success in the future.”

Belles will get their 2017 campaign underway when they travel to Sheffield FC Ladies in the Spring Series on Sunday.

The Spring Series is a one-off competition designed to bridge the gap until the start of the new FAWSL2 season, which has been put back until September.