One of the Fleet’s favourite sons returns to the first team…

Ebbsfleet United have been boosted with the news that Canadian defender Ross Smith has returned to the club. Smith, aged 29, played for Montrose and Margate before joining the Fleet, and left Stonebridge Road in 2007 to join Dagenham & Redbridge who had been promoted to League Division Two.

After one season Smith returned to North America to play for the Rochester Rhinos in the USL First Division, coached by former Leicester City star Steve Guppy. Smith’s appearances for the Rhinos were curtailed when he suffered complications arising from a previously undiscovered heart condition which has been with him since birth.

“Ross is now fully recovered,” said Fleet boss Liam Daish. “And after stringent tests he has been given the all-clear by doctors here to resume his playing career. I am delighted that we are able to bring his fighting spirit, determination and experience back to the club.”

Smith has played 87 times for the Fleet, and scored six goals. His profile can be read [ HERE ].