Transfer News : Smith fury over Boro swap deal

Alan Smith hit out as Newcastle agreed to swap him for Middlesbrough striker Mido.

A source said: “Alan’s really angry about this. He has been working hard to regain his fitness and wants to do well at Newcastle.”

Smith, a £6million signing from Manchester United 18 months ago, was never informed the clubs were in talks and found out only last night but he has no intention of quitting St James’ Park.

Newcastle are now threatening that Smith will never play for the club again if he does not accept the move. Smith, 28, sees the attempt to flog him behind his back as a massive slap in the face after spending three months working furiously to get fit following an ankle ligament operation.

The source added: “He is back in training and should be ready for selection by the end of the month. He does not want to go anywhere else.”

Gareth Southgate tried to sign Smith, who can play in midfield or up front, from Manchester United last season but Newcastle, managed by Sam Allardyce, beat him to it when they paid £6m for a player yet to win over the fans.