Soccer: O'Brien deal is ideal, says Smith

Alex Smith believes that the arrival of Ronnie O'Brien at Dundee United on loan from Juventus will spark both the club and the player.

The Irish midfielder is poised to seal a deal which will keep him at Tannadice until the end of the season.

But Smith insists that the deal will prove to be a boost for all parties concerned.

"It's a mutually beneficial arrangement as it adds quality to our squad and allows us to make a permanent move for him later if we see fit," said Smith.

"For Juventus, it gives their young player the chance to gain more experience and allows them to assess his progress.

"For Ronnie himself, it will help him work out where his future lies once this season is over."