Midfield man Paul hoping to seal contract from Town's new manager: PAUL Smith already has the shirt off Dennis Wise's back and now the experienced campaigner is looking for Town's new boss to hand him a contract as well.

Before Iffy Onuora's dismissal last week, 34-year-old Smith looked a nailed on certainty to be part of the County Ground squad for the 2006-7 campaign.

However, the whole managerial picture has changed at the club and the former Gillingham man is philosophical about what the future may hold.

However, his desire to be part of the Swindon Town set up remains as strong as ever.

He doesn't know whether Wise will want him or not, all he wants is a clear indication either way.

Smith, now well on the road to recovery after an ankle operation, said: "Obviously things were looking good in terms of a contract when Iffy was here.

"I've known Iffy a long time and he's a friend but you accept that these things happen in football.

"Swindon have brought in Dennis Wise and Gus Poyet, both players who have performed at the highest level.

"Dennis also did a job in terms of management at Millwall and I'm sure the club will be looking at both success and bums on seats.

"Funnily enough I've got a framed shirt of Dennis' from a match when Gillingham played Chelsea in the cup a few years ago.

"They beat us 4-2.

"In terms of the future, he's a new manager and I'm sure he'll have new ideas.

"Whether I'm part of those plans, I don't know at this moment in time.

"All I can say is that I'd very much like to be.

"I have to go in to the club at some stage to pick up my boots so maybe there'll be a chance to talk.

"I was only at Swindon Town a very short time, certainly compared to the amount of time I had at Gillingham.

"But in that short time, I formed a very positive impression of the place and if it turns out that I don't come back then I'll have very fond memories.

"My only regret is that I didn't get to play more matches, due to the injury.

"I won't be bitter and twisted if Dennis decides to look at other midfield options.

"After all, he's a midfielder himself and might want to play.

"All I'd like is for everything to be sorted one way or another, whether it's a letter or a phone call and that the club touch base with me in some way.

"Whatever Dennis wants to do is fair enough but, yes, if the phone call comes to talk then I'll be very happy to."

n A reminder the club box office will be open to deal with season ticket applications on Bank Holiday Monday (9am until 3pm).