Former Portsmouth-linked defender released by Sunderland

The defender has departed the Stadium of Light having not made a single appearance, after signing a short-term deal in February.

Pompey were linked with a move for Smith during the January transfer window.

At the time, Kenny Jackett was looking at bringing in a left-footed centre-back – with Tranmere’s Manny Monthe a target.

Smith was training with his former club Ipswich’s under-23s after he returned from a spell in the MLS playing for Colarado Rapids.

Jackett opted not to bring in a new central defender during the window. The Blues boss was pleased with the encouraging form Christian Burgess and Sean Raggett, while Jack Whatmough was nearing his return to full fitness.

Smith subsequently joined Sunderland but failed to make an impact and hasn’t been given a new deal.

Now the 30-year-old New Zealand international is a free agent heading into the summer transfer window.