The update says Smith had already completed pre-season with Livingston, leaving him ready to step into Aberdeen’s plans. His reported appearance against Brora Rangers also gave him an early opportunity to build relationships with new team-mates rather than waiting for his introduction.
That could prove valuable for a player moving into a new dressing room and adapting to a different manager. Smith has previously played at Pittodrie with Livingston, but this would represent a very different occasion: a chance to establish himself on home turf.
Smith’s reference point is Lewis Ferguson, who came through the Hamilton Academical system before making a major impact at Aberdeen and earning a move to Bologna.
“Lewis was a year older than me and we never played together in Hamilton's first team but we did a lot in the youth system,” Smith said.
The comparison is naturally a demanding one, but it also underlines the opportunity in front of him. Smith is reportedly keen to make an immediate impression through creativity, positive attacking play and a willingness to take responsibility in the final third.
Smith is also adapting to Aberdeen boss Robinson after working under David Martindale at Livingston. He sees similarities between the two coaches.
“They are both really intense, both are really enthusiastic and both really loud on the sidelines,” he said. “I think that helps just knowing what a manager wants from you.”
The next test is whether that understanding can translate into a confident Pittodrie performance. Queen’s Park could provide Smith’s first meaningful opportunity to begin a new chapter in Aberdeen colours.