STEVEN SMITH has recovered from the pelvic problem that once threatened his career and is ready to push for a regular place in Alex McLeish's squad<\/STRONG>.<\/P>
The young Scottish left-back was included in the travelling party for the pre-season training trip to Germany before the 2003\/04 season - with youth pal Chris Burke - and his career really looked set to take off.<\/P>
However, he missed the majority of that campaign through injury and at one stage feared he may never play again.<\/P>
Thankfully, the flame-haired defender has proved his fitness and he was finally thrust into top team action against Hearts on November 28, 2004.<\/P>
Stevie replaced Mo Ross at half-time and played his part in a fine 3-2 victory, a result that propelled the Light Blues to top spot in the SPL for the first time since October 2003.<\/P>
He was handed his first SPL start in the 1-1 draw with Inverness Caledonian Thistle the following week and his career has gone from strength to strength ever since.<\/P>
In 2005\/06, the defender made 24 appearances for the first team and, by the end of the campaign, had cemented his place in the first-team and won the club's Young Player of the Year award.<\/P>
His battling displays have earned him rave reviews and he looks to have a very bright future at the club.<\/P>
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