Everyone at Rotherham United has been deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former physiotherapist Alan Smith, aged 74.
Hailing from Middlesbrough, Alan had a promising professional football career as a player cut short when he sustained a broken leg aged just 17 but, determined to stay involved with the game he loved, he committed himself to physiotherapy.
He earned his first appointment in the medical field with the Millers in 1972 under then-manager Jim McAnearney and enjoyed five successful years as part of the staff at Millmoor.
Alan departed for Blackpool before moving on to Sheffield Wednesday and it was during his time at Hillsborough that he was bestowed the honour of working with the England national team in 1986 having been called upon by Sir Bobby Robson.
Impressed by his work with some of football’s biggest names, Terry Venables appointed Alan on a full-time basis with the Three Lions, who he would serve for eight years in total under seven different managers.
Alan was pivotal in ensuring the availability of a number of key players in the build-up to major tournaments, most notably working with David Beckham and Alan Shearer to help them back to full fitness in time for selection.
Alan worked alongside some of the biggest names in world football and is seen here working with David Beckham during his England days
Later in his career he was employed on a part-time basis by Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield Wednesday.
Outside of football, Millers fans may be familiar with Alan’s work through his physiotherapy practice in Wickersley where he continued to work after retiring from professional football.
Through his links in football, Alan used his contacts to help support a number of local charities.
The thoughts of everyone at Rotherham United are with all of Alan’s family and many friends at this incredibly difficult time.
Once a Miller, Always a Miller.