Sam Smith (footballer, born 1998)

Samuel Toby Smith (born 8 March 1998) is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Reading.

Reading (2016–2021)
Smith signed his first professional contract with Reading in 2016. He made his debut appearance during a 2–0 EFL Cup win over Gillingham on 8 August 2017, and scored his first goal for Reading in the cup's second-round tie against Millwall on 22 August.

In February 2018, Smith signed a new contract with Reading until the end of the 2020–21 season.

Loan periods (2016–2021)
On 26 August 2016, Smith joined Bishop's Stortford on a four-month loan. In July 2018 he joined Oxford United of League One on a season-long loan. He made his debut as a substitute in the first match of the league season, a 4–0 away defeat to Barnsley. His first start and home debut came in the following match, a 2–0 defeat to Fleetwood Town. He scored his first goal for Oxford in a 3–0 EFL Trophy win over Fulham Under 21s on 4 September 2018. His loan was ended early at the end of 2018, with Smith's record standing at 3 goals (all in the EFL Trophy) in 23 appearances in all competitions.

In January 2019, Smith signed for Shrewsbury Town on loan until the end of the 2018–19 season. He played the 2019–20 season with Cambridge United in League Two, and the first half of the 2020–21 season with Tranmere Rovers. After making five appearances, Smith returned to Reading before signing a loan deal with Cheltenham Town on 29 January 2021.

Cambridge United (2021–23)
On 11 May 2021, Reading announced that Smith would leave the club when his contract expired on 30 June 2021. On 7 July 2021, Smith signed a permanent deal with Cambridge United, signing a 2-year contract.

He was released at the end of the 2022–23 season.

Reading (2023–)
On 17 July 2023, Smith returned to Reading, signing a three-year contract with the club.

Honours
Cheltenham Town
 * League Two: 2020–21