Matt Smith praised for taking Doncaster Rovers form onto international stage with Wales

Smith starred as he won his 13th senior international cap in Wales’ friendly win over Mexico and made a further strong case for inclusion in the squad for the summer’s European Championship.

The 21-year-old played the full 90 minutes at the Cardiff City Stadium, with a goal from former Barnsley striker Kieffer Moore securing the win.

The Manchester City loanee was named man of the match by several outlets due to his passing play and quality from set pieces.

And Wales caretaker boss Rob Page praised Smith for his performance.

He said: “Our young players need to be out playing competitive football, that’s the message we give them, and Matt’s a great example of that.

“The loan last season didn’t work out for him. He got called back by Manchester City and sent out to Doncaster.

“I’ve seen him three times in the last month and he’s given performances like that week in, week out.

“Also Dylan Levitt [of Manchester United]. I thought the two of them were magnificent in the centre of the park against experienced players with a lot of caps in a top-10 ranked team.”

Smith was absent from Rovers’ defeat at MK Dons on Saturday, but will return in time to face Charlton Athletic on Friday.

Prior to that, he will hope his performance on Saturday has earned him a chance to feature in Wales’ World Cup qualifier against Czech Republic on Tuesday night.

Smith has made 32 appearances so far this season, providing seven assists.

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