Michael Smith

Michael Smith (born 4 September 1988) is a Northern Irish professional footballer who plays as a defender for Scottish Premiership club Heart of Midlothian. Smith has received several honours, including the Ballymena United Player of the Year in 2009–10, and Bristol Rovers Player of the Year in 2012–13.

Club Career

Smith began playing football under the management of his father at Greenisland Boys Club and was picked up by his first senior club, Ballyclare Comrades in 2005. He signed for Ballymena United in January 2009, and made over 100 appearances for them before moving to England to join Bristol Rovers in 2011.

Bristol Rovers

He made his debut on 6 August 2011, in a 3–2 victory away against AFC Wimbledon. He made his home debut on 13 August in a 1–2 defeat to local rivals Torquay United.

Smith scored his first goal for Rovers in the League Cup against Ipswich Town, which Bristol Rovers lost 3–1.

Peterborough United

On 25 July 2014, Smith moved to Peterborough United, signing a three-year deal.

Heart of Midlothian

On 30 June 2017, Michael Smith signed for Hearts in the Scottish Premiership. He signed a two-year deal and will wear the number 2 shirt, previously worn by Callum Paterson. On 7 January 2021 Smith signed an 18-month contract extension, keeping him at Hearts until the end of the 2021/22 season.