George Smith: Northampton Town sign Gateshead defender

George Smith made 44 appearances for Barnsley before his release in 2016

Northampton Town have signed left-back George Smith from National League side Gateshead for an undisclosed fee.

The 20-year-old made 38 appearances for Gateshead this season, having joining in June 2016 after leaving Barnsley.

Smith had played 25 league games for the Tykes in 2015-16 as they won promotion to the Championship.

He has signed a two-year contract with Justin Edinburgh's League One side, providing competition for fellow left-back David Buchanan.

"That's the reason why I've come here, because I feel I can give him competition," Smith told BBC Radio Northampton.

"I can learn stuff off him and make myself a better player, but first and foremost try to take his shirt off him."

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