Korey Smith relishing first play-off tilt

Korey Smith is relishing his first taste of the play-offs, hoping he can follow in the footsteps of two former team-mates and help Swansea City reach the Premier League.

Smith has enjoyed a fine first season in Swans colours, having joined the club after six years at Bristol City last August.

The 30-year-old midfielder has experienced promotion with Norwich (twice) and Bristol City, but none of those came via the play-offs.

So, the upcoming semi-final legs against Barnsley – one of his former clubs – will be Smith’s first chance to sample them.

And, having seen former Robins team-mates Joe Bryan and Bobby Decordova-Reid celebrate Wembley success with Fulham last summer, he is keen to do the same.

“I’ve had three promotions, and they’ve all been automatic, so I’ve never experienced the play-offs,” said Smith.

“I’m really looking forward to it. The boys experienced it last season, and that will hold us in good stead.

“We’ve got a more experienced team as a result this season, so hopefully that helps us.

“It’s been a long season, but a positive one. We are going into the play-offs full of positivity, and when you get there it’s all about winning.

“Last year, two of my good friends at Fulham – Joe Bryan and Bobby Reid – were playing in the final.

Joe actually scored the two goals.

“I've said to them, I’d love that feeling. They said it was the best feeling they’d ever had.”