"We were having a laugh in training the other day because we were having a penalty shoot-out and I saved Jack Hunt's kick. I just said to him 'have you any idea how many times I've seen where you put your penalties? It's fair to say I've watched the DVD from Wembley a few times, but it's time to move on and try to progress ourselves in the Championship this season."
Smithies was asked if he would ever forget how himself and the club gained promotion from League One to which he replied;
"Probably not, because those are the memories you cherish and that's why you train so hard, because you want to have memories like that and, hopefully, there will be more to come."
Alex also went on to talk about tonights game against League One outfit Preston North End as well as speaking about how he is focused on the job required in The Championship;
"Being in the Championship at this stage is what the club deserves because the chairman has put so much time and money into it, and he deserves to get what he wants. Now it's the next step up and we know it's a big challenge, but we're all really excited. It's strange having a Cup game first, but we want to do well in every game we play and this is no different."
"Some people have said the League Cup has gone down in estimations in recent years, but we want to progress as far as we can and with it being our first game of the season, it's important. If we can win over at Preston then that will give us confidence to take into the Cardiff City game on Friday, because we know they are going to be very strong. Ultimately, we want to prove ourselves against them and everyone else in the division, because it's a fantastic fixture list and there isn't a bad game to be had."
"We're looking forward to it because the gaffer has brought in some new faces, they are all people who have already done what's necessary at this level and, hopefully, we will be able to compete as a Championship squad."
Nick Colgan and Ian Bennett are both vastly experienced goalkeepers that Smithies is currently beating to the number one position but he knows they will both be poised to take over at any stage if required to do so;
"We want competition for places, because it helps bring the best out of you. Those lads push you on and to know such good keepers are there makes you want to work and want to improve. I'll be doing my best to get the shirt for the first game of the season, but we know we've got strength in depth whoever gets the nod. My aim is to get the shirt and keep it for the rest of the season and, for the team, I think we've just got to be competitive, prove ourselves and see where that takes us."
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
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