Former Swindon Town midfielder Matt Smith has signed for Stevenage as a free agent this week. The 25-year-old agreed terms with the League One club after the summer transfer window closed, as reported by the Wilts & Gloucestershire Standard. wiltsglosstandard.co.uk first reported the story.
Smith spent six months on loan at the County Ground during the 2020/21 season, arriving as part of a triple loan swoop by then-manager Richie Wellens that also included Jonny Smith and Tyler Smith. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his league debut in a 3-1 win over Rochdale just before half-time. As a teenager, he quickly became a key figure in midfield, impressing fans with his composure and ability to control games at both ends of the pitch.
Why did Matt Smith leave Swindon Town early?
His successful loan spell was cut short on February 1, when he moved on loan to Charlton Athletic. Diallang Jaiyesimi also departed for Charlton on the same day, a double blow for a Swindon side then under the management of John Sheridan and battling against relegation. Many supporters felt Smith and Jaiyesimi were the team's two best players at that time, making their exits particularly disappointing. Smith went on to make eight appearances for Charlton during that loan.
What is Matt Smith's career background?
Smith is a product of Arsenal's academy, having come through the ranks at the Emirates Stadium. He was part of the squad that won the FA Cup, earning a winner's medal as an unused substitute. After his spells at Swindon and Charlton, the midfielder had subsequent stints at Doncaster Rovers and Wigan Athletic before becoming a free agent this summer.
Where does this leave Swindon Town now?
Swindon Town finished the 2025/26 season in 9th place in League Two, accumulating 75 points from 46 games. Their record of 22 wins, 9 draws, and 15 losses left them 12 points behind champions Bromley. The team scored 70 goals and conceded 59, ending with a positive goal difference of +11. Fans can review the full final standings and the club's stats from the campaign. The Robins' squad planning for the new season is ongoing, with details available on the official squad page.
Stevenage's acquisition of Matt Smith adds experience to their League One midfield as they prepare for the new campaign. The former Arsenal youngster will be aiming to recapture the form he showed during his brief but memorable time in Wiltshire.
