Smith returned to the team for the Bolton defeat, but was axed for the subsequent Chelsea game – Chris Hughton preferring Danny Guthrie and Cheik Tiote in the midfield engine room.
With captain Kevin Nolan left on the sidelines with an ankle injury it was a particularly bitter blow to Smith, who has been in and out of the side all year and has found Tiote’s form a major barrier to his recall.
His infrequent starts once again raised the possibility that Smith may be on his way, with Everton and Blackburn both understood to be preparing loan moves in January.
But Hughton insists Smith will NOT be going to any Premiership club on loan.
What would be the point? Why give others the benefit of a player who could eventually make it into the Toon tream?
But a money offer could sway the balance.