Darlington boss seals Smith deal.

Darlington boss Simon Davey has bolstered his side for the likely Blue Square Premier campaign next season by extending Gary Smith's contract.Midfielder Smith, 26, has agreed a one-year deal at the Arena and Davey admitted his thoughts are already turned to the forthcoming season.

"All but mathematically we're going to head to the Conference," Davey said.

"It's up to us to assess what we've got to see if they're the right kind to help us bounce straight back."

Former Middlesbrough trainee Smith arrived at the Arena during July 2009 following spells at MK Dons and Brentford.

Chairman Raj Singh sees the signature of Gary Smith as a positive step, and despite looming relegation remains upbeat about the club's future.

"We're delighted to sign Gary up for next season. He's one of a number of players the new manager has already identified to retain," Singh said.

It's vital we hit the ground running at the beginning of 2010-11 so getting players signed up early is very important.

Chairman Raj Singh

"Simon is looking for positive characters and Gary will hopefully be the first of many to sign up to our long-term plan to assemble the strongest possible squad for next season.

"It's vital we hit the ground running at the beginning of 2010-11, so getting players signed up early is very important.

"It will be a great opportunity for him and the club to have a full pre-season under our belts before the start of the new season.

"Last summer was so uncertain, everything was resolved virtually at the last-minute which meant the manager was trying to prepare for the season with his hands tied.

Darlington's relegation may be confirmed if Cheltenham beat Bury. The Quakers are at home to Accrington.

Source: BBC Sport