Stevenage midfielder plays against Peterborough while partner goes into labour

Graham Westley praised Jimmy Smith’s professionalism after the midfielder played in Saturday’s win over Peterborough United while his partner went into labour with their child.

Speaking after the match about the midfielder, who was sent off during the second half for a second yellow card offence and whose baby Henry was born weighing 7lbs 12oz on Sunday, Westley said: “Jimmy Smith to be here on the field of play under those circumstances has shown the level of commitment he’s got to the cause and that’s where my focus is.

“An outstanding professional who has even put profession before family. That shows just how committed he is to his career and his future. He knows in the end his family benefits from his career and he’s put that career right on the table today.”