Mystery surrounds the impact Brentford midfielder Gary Smith's impending court case will have on his pre-season preparations.

Smith, who joined Brentford last summer from MK Dons, is being sued by former Manchester United starlet Ben Collett after he broke his leg in two places with a tackle during a reserve team match for Middlesbrough back in May 2003.

Promising youngster Collett has since retired, while Smith and Middlesbrough have admitted liability through their   insurers.

But Brentford only became aware of the case this week, and can not say if Smith would be required in court and whether or not it would affect his pre-season preparations.