Adam Smith is looking forward to a new opportunity to carve out a career for himself as a professional footballer - a couple of years after being shown the door by Norwich City.

Adam Smith is looking forward to a new opportunity to carve out a career for himself as a professional footballer - a couple of years after being shown the door by Norwich City.

The 21-year-old utility player made a name for himself at King's Lynn after failing to win a contract with the Canaries, with his goals helping the Linnets into the second round of the FA Cup.

That form prompted Peterborough United - now coached by former Lynn boss Tommy Taylor - to splash out £10,000 for his services. And after signing a three-and-a-half deal at London Road yesterday Smith spoke of his determination to make the most of an exciting second chance.

“It's a great opportunity for me and I am determined to make the most of it,” said the Norfolk youngster, who carved out a niche for himself at left-back at The Walks but is equally happy in midfield.

“I have always had confidence in my ability and although it was obviously a big setback to be released by Norwich I never gave up hope that one day I would get another chance.

“I just worked hard on my game at King's Lynn and now I have got my reward. I'm not taking any for granted - I'm not expecting just to walk into the Peterborough first team or anything like that - but it's an exciting challenge and I am ready for it.”

Smith worked his way up to the fringes of the Norwich first team after progressing through the junior ranks at Carrow Road, and was a regular at reserve team level before manager Nigel Worthington delivered the news that all young footballers dread.

“It was a huge blow at the time, of course it was, but I certainly don't bear any grudges,” he said. “I thought I had done okay and actually made the squad for a couple of Premiership matches without making the final 16.

“But the manager made his decision and I had to respect it. It wasn't a case of trying to prove Nigel Worthington wrong, or anything like that. I just had to pick myself up and find another club.”

After a successful spell with King's Lynn Smith now finds himself teaming up at League Two level with another player rejected by Worthington, striker Danny Crow.

“I'm looking forward to that,” he said. “Me and Danny go right back to when we played for Norwich together at under-eight level. I'd love to play in the same team as him again but, as I said, I will be taking it one step at a time. I have got to show the manager (Keith Alexander) that I am worth a place in the squad first.”

The one downside of yesterday's deal, which could eventually rise to £15,000 depending on appearances, is that Smith can no longer play in Lynn's televised cup clash with Oldham at the Walks on Friday week.

“I am cup tied and won't be available for Peterborough in their cup tie at Tranmere so I'll be there cheering the lads on,” he said. “But it goes without saying that I would rather be out there playing.

“If I could have joined Peterborough after the Oldham game that would have been great but unfortunately it wasn't possible. All I can do now is wish them all the best - and thank everyone connected with the club for making me feel so welcome during my time there.”

Because the transfer window is currently closed Smith will initially play for Posh on loan, with the transfer being formally completed on January 1.