Smith On Verge Of MK Dons Loan Deal

Newcastle United midfielder Alan Smith is on the verge of joining MK Dons on loan for the rest of the season, with Mike Ashley paying for the privilege. Smith, who is on £60,000 a week, is said to be considering the offer, despite interest from Ipswich Town and Leeds United.

The 31 year old, whose contract is due to expire at the end of the 2011/12 campaign, has made two appearances from the bench for Newcastle this season, during one of which he received a yellow card. He featured in Newcastle's 2-1 win against Fulham on August 28th 2011 and in their 4-2 defeat against Norwich on 11th December 2011.

Since his arrival on Tyneside in August 2007 Smith has made 68 League appearances, 5 in the FA Cup and 4 in the League Cup, scoring 1 goal in four and a half years, but has been cursed by injuries.

A move to MK Dons would mean dropping down by two Leagues, but would give him the opportunity to assist them in their promotion bid from League One to the Championship.