Gary Smith (born 25 March 1971) is a Scottish former professional footballer who played as a defender.

Career

Club career

Smith was born in Glasgow, Scotland. He began his professional career at Falkirk, making his debut in 1989. He was snapped up by Aberdeen in 1991 and played in three cup finals for the Dons. He scored an own goal in the 1992 Scottish League Cup Final, which ultimately led to Rangers winning the trophy. In 1996, he left for French club Rennes (Heart of Midlothian winger Allan Johnston making the same move), before returning to Aberdeen in 1997. He signed for Hibernian in 2000 and despite falling out of favour with manager Franck Sauzée, re-established himself as a regular in the team under Bobby Williamson. After a solid spell at Hibs, Smith was allowed to leave Easter Road for Cowdenbeath in 2006. He was then loaned to Dundee from Cowdenbeath after he was passed over for the managerial position.

International career

Smith was called up to the senior Scotland squad by Andy Roxburgh in 1993 but was ultimately never capped at that level.

After Football

After retirement Smith retrained as a firefighter. Moving through the ranks Smith now holds the rank of Watch Commander in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Career statistics

Club

Appearances and goals by club, season and competition

Honours

Falkirk Aberdeen Hibernian