Tom Smith remains on loan from Arsenal with Welling United, despite rumours of a recall and a long absence from matches.

20-year-old Arsenal goalkeeper Tom Smith signed on for the third non-league loan of his young career this summer, joining Welling United.

Smith previously had loan spells with Salisbury FC and Dover Athletic, but he was recalled early from both spells after injuries and other selection problems limited his appearances.

This time around, it looked like it could be a similar story. Following an early knock, Smith broke into the Welling United team in September, then picked up another injury in early October – dislocating his shoulder.

That often carries a lengthy rehabilitation period with it, particularly for goalkeepers, and Smith hasn’t played another game since.

In January, there were rumours that Arsenal may have recalled Smith from his loan, particularly given Welling signed a replacement goalkeeper.

But Daily Cannon has learned that Smith is still with Welling United, and he was even in attendance for their game against Chippenham Town this weekend.

We hope to see the young keeper back on the pitch very soon. The fact he hasn’t been recalled certainly suggests his season isn’t over yet.