Mystery Full-back Revealed

Last updated : 14 August 2006 By Stand Free Ed

ABERDEEN has taken Sunderland's 19-year-old defender Dan Smith on a short-term trial.

The young left-back has arrived at Pittodrie to be scrutinised by the Dons' coaches.

Soonlan gaffer Niall Quinn told the Makems' website: "Aberdeen have asked Dan up for a couple of days to look at him and that may develop. We need him to get more experience."

Smith, who made his Premiership debut last season, has yet to feature for Sunderland in the Championship. He also went on loan to Huddersfield last term where he made 8 appearances.

Smith incurred the wrath of Arsenal boss Arsene Whinger after a late challenge on Abou Diaby last season. Smith was booked for the challenge but Whinger felt the need to describe the incident as "horrendous".

Sunderland's then caretaker-boss Kevin Ball said in reply: "Dan Smith is not a malicious, dirty player and I think it's then unfair to make that call on him and say he deliberately went to do it."