SCHOOL' may be out at the County Ground but studious Jack Smith has been busy with a spot of homework ahead of a new campaign, writes JON RITSON.

The project in question is one Dennis Wise and the young defender likes what he has uncovered with regard to his new boss.

And when it comes to handing out marks, Smith has discovered that nothing less than a perfect score will do in Wise's eyes.

And he also feels that Town's pre-season preparations have been given a tremendous boost, well ahead of them actually starting.

Smith, missed only a handful of games during his first season in Wiltshire but knows that will count for nothing when the players report back in late June.

He said: "I've spoken to people I know at Millwall about Dennis Wise.

"I've been told he's a good man manager and something of a perfectionist as well."

Not that player and manager are total strangers.

"And he trained with us at Watford for a couple of weeks about three or four years ago. I don't know if he remembers me (Wise did mention both Smith and Jerel Ifil during the press conference to announce his arrival)," said the former Hornet.

After a couple of weeks rest, Smith has resumed running again and he believes that Wise's appointment should ensure that the players return with an extra spring in their step.

That can only bode well for the tough season to follow.

Smith, who penned a new one-year deal before the end of last season, said: "Everyone starts again with the new boss and you want to give yourself the best opportunity to impress.

"I'm sure everyone will be working twice as hard during the break to make sure they come back in the best possible shape.

"There's also the fact that the new gaffer will probably want to bring some new faces in as well so you are going to have competition for your place.

"It's going to be interesting and I'm sure the fans are talking about it."

Away from the County Ground Smith was pleased to see his former employers enjoy promotion to the Premiership after their Millennium Stadium win over Leeds United.

"Watford had a good game plan and it's great to see them back up there."