I didn't say he was must... just an option, something we are limited by because of import rules.
Howieson seems to be doing well and has his confidence back - but I still don't rate him personally, I think his touch and option taking are poor too often.
Screw Colorado Smith - come to the A League and back to NZ, our reduced schedule will be good for your dodgy hip and back!
Yeah he'd definitely be good as a backup option, but to be honest he's not really up to this level in my opinion. When you're 21 and you've only made one first team appearance there's got to be questions asked about his talent and his potential development, especially when there are four first-team regulars younger than him.
For me there are better players we could sign from ACFC than Howieson, I agree with what you say there. Tavano is having a blinder of a season and he can play anywhere from DM to striker, he'd be excellent backup. De Vries, McCowatt and Harry Edge are three other Kiwi nationals who could make the step up.
And hell yeah Tommy Smith!
Not sure if his physical condition is up to the speed of the A-League.
Consider Paracki who is only now coming to terms with it. Smith might end up being a walking wounded.