Michael Smith: Bristol Rovers defender hands in transfer request

Smith signed for Rovers from Ballymena United in 2011

Right-back Michael Smith has handed in a transfer request at Bristol Rovers.

The 25-year-old Northern Irishman still has a year left to run on his current contract but has asked to leave Rovers following their relegation from the Football League last season.

He was brought to the club by former Pirates boss Paul Buckle in the summer of 2011 from Ballymena United.

Smith has made 114 appearances for Rovers but missed the final three games of last season through injury.