The All Whites defender Tommy Smith says he's excited to be back in the national squad and thankful for his inclusion.
The Ipswich Town player hasn't played for New Zealand since 2014, but is with the squad again preparing for this weekend's World Cup qualifying game against Fiji.
The All Whites Tommy Smith. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Smith was perceived to have had a lack of communication and commitment to the All Whites, but approached coach Anthony Hudson last year to set the record straight.
"Obviously there was a situation beforehand that got out of hand really and I'm just delighted to be back and excited to get going after a great chat with Anthony in October."
Smith wouldn't go into the details of the apparent falling out, "it happened behind closed doors and I'd rather keep it that way at the risk of naming names and stuff, it's all behind us now and hopefully we can move forward."
Smith says he spoke with other All Whites players and was assured that there was a positive feeling about having him back.
"The lads have been great with me, I didn't want to disrupt things and everone has assured me I'd be welcomed back, I want to help things."
-RNZ
