CREWE'S new striker can't wait to let his football do the talking as he looks to re-ignite his career at the Alexandra Stadium.

It's been a turbulent couple of years for 29-year-old Allan Smart with off-the-pitch problems at Oldham followed by a fruitless spell on it at Dundee United in the Scottish Premier.

A 24-hour spell last week was equally as mad for the 6ft forward who thought he was on his way to Barnsley before joining the Alex on a month-to-month basis and making the bench against Ipswich.

Despite The Tykes' initial interest, Smart took up an invitation to take part in a practise match at Reaseheath after which boss Dario Gradi made his offer.

Then it gets complicated.

"I spoke to Dario and told him about Barnsley's interest," said Smart.

"I was basically unemployed so I went to Barnsley who offered me a year's deal but when I got there, there was nothing because of their transfer embargo.

"So Dario said he was happy for me to come back which I appreciate.

"I've got to go for security. There are better players than myself that haven't got fixed up."

With pen put to paper now, Smart's aiming to make the most of his time in South Cheshire.

"I'll let them have a look at me and hopefully I'll do enough to get a contract," he continued.

"I was always on the bench at Dundee and it didn't go as well as I would have liked but I was always going to come back down here.

"Everyone's aware of Dario's reputation in the game and a good reference from him will go a long way."

Smart's best spell came at Watford as he helped them win promotion to the Premiership and enjoyed a solid spell in the top flight, scoring 7 in 13 before injuries hampered him.

"I was impressed last Saturday," he continued.

"As the game went on I didn't think he's tinker with the team because it was that tight.

"The strikers look good and if the team plays as well as that, I might not get an opportunity."