Tommy Smith, who played over 200 times for Ipswich Town Football Club (ITFC), still has hopes of playing for New Zealand in the 2026 World Cup Finals.
The 36-year-old from Ipswich revealed this news during a two-hour Q and A session held in front of around 100 staff and students at Suffolk New College.
The defender, who has clocked up over 50 appearances for his country and played in South Africa 2010, is hoping to book his ticket to one of the biggest sporting shows on earth next month.
In terms of his World Cup dream, Tommy said: “Fingers crossed. I’m waiting for the call (from New Zealand), and hopefully it will be positive news. It would be an amazing way to finish my career.”
During his visit to Suffolk New College in Ipswich, Alan Pease – the Principal & CEO of the college – interviewed the former Brentford and Colchester star – who also had spells in America, Australia and New Zealand – about his career.
Smith discussed his injury issues, playing for managers that have included Peter Taylor, Phil Parkinson, Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy, and also talked about some of his favourite teammates and toughest opponents.
Tough opponents included Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar and Ronaldo, and best teammates included Aaron Cresswell, David McGoldrick, Cole Skuse and his best mate Chris Wood, who had a brief spell at Ipswich and currently plays up front for Nottingham Forest.
Smith also revealed that he studied at the college whilst being part of the ITFC academy and reflected on coming back to his former educational home. He said: “It was a really enjoyable experience (to come back to Suffolk New College). It’s a magnificent building, and it’s great to come back and see the college thriving and going from strength to strength.”
Student Jackson Pickering, 18, from Ipswich, is on a Personal Training course. He took away a lot from the visit. He said, “It was interesting hearing about how much they dedicate their lives to football and how you deal with setbacks.”
Jason Ogbonna, 18, from Colchester, is on a Level 3 Sports Coaching programme at the college. He said: “Tommy helped promote the idea that you need to give it your all, try to improve every day, and make the most of opportunities. He has inspired me to do more.”
Alan Pease (Principal & CEO) said, “Tommy gave up his time for free and was very open and honest with all of his answers.
“He gave some great advice to our students, and all of the college is hoping he gets some good news in a couple of weeks, and we will then get to watch him at the World Cup over the summer. A massive thanks to him for coming to see us where he helped inspire the next generation.”