Wrexham signed Sam Smith from their upcoming opponents, Reading, during the 2025 January transfer window.
With the likes of Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer – three each in 2024/25 – struggling to score goals in League One, the Red Dragons decided to improve their striker ranks in the most recent transfer window.
Jay Rodriguez has brought a wealth of Premier League and Championship experience with him to the Racecourse Ground.
But the 35-year-old, who is coming toward the end of his playing career, saw his arrival overshadowed by the record move for Sam Smith.
Smith had 11 league goals to his name before linking up with Wrexham and has hit the ground running for his new club.
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What Sam Smith promised his mum before Wrexham vs Rotherham
Smith scored his first Wrexham goal against Northampton Town on February 15th in a 2-0 win.
The 27-year-old then failed to find the back of the net in the Red Dragons’ following four league fixtures.
However, Smith earned praise from Phil Parkinson after he linked up well with Rodriguez to score the only goal of the game as Wrexham beat Rotherham United this past Saturday.
Now, as per Leader Live, the striker has revealed that prior to that match, he promised his mum he’d score a goal for her.
Smith said: “It was very enjoyable. My first goal at The Cae Ras so delighted with that. It was unreal to be honest and it helped to get the three points.
“It’s a special feeling, a feeling I won’t forget for a very long time, especially on my birthday as well.
“I told my mum I’d get her a goal so she’ll be delighted with that.”
Wrexham forward Sam Smith on facing Reading
Wrexham now face Reading on Tuesday evening in what is a must-win tie for Parkinson and co. ahead of their huge clash with second-place Wycombe Wanderers this weekend.
It will be the first time Smith has faced his former club, who currently sit eighth in League One.
And when discussing The Royals, Wrexham’s record signing expressed his excitement at returning to the Madejski Stadium.
He said: “Reading are a very good team, a young and energetic team, and they are fighting for the play-offs so they’ll be giving it everything they’ve got.
“I’m excited to go back, it is going to be very strange but I’m looking forward to going back.”