And he shuddered in the stands on Tuesday night as Antonio
Valencia was carried off after a tackle from Rangers' Kirk
Broadfoot.
It seemed an innocuous challenge but the diagnosis for Valencia
was a fracture and dislocation of his left ankle.
For Smith to be there as it happened was an astonishing
coincidence.
Now at Newcastle, the midfielder rarely goes back to Old
Trafford but had a late offer of a ticket from Toon No 2 Colin
Calderwood.
And, when Valencia went down in agony, memories of his own awful
fate 4½ years ago came flooding back.
Smith was out for eight months after dislocating an ankle and
breaking a bone as he blocked a free-kick in an FA Cup tie at
Liverpool.
But it was 18 months before he was properly fit again and he
moved on to St James' Park.
United boss Alex Ferguson said at the time it was "one of the
worst injuries I've ever seen".
And, as Valencia lay in hospital on Tuesday night, Fergie
observed the Ecuador star's injury was similar to the one Smith
suffered.
It marked the beginning of the end of Smith's United career -
but he hopes Valencia can make a full and speedy recovery.
Smith, 29, said: "I can relate to what Antonio is going
through.
"There's no getting away from the fact it is a hard road back
from an injury like that but with determination, you can do it.
"It means weeks of doing virtually nothing then long days with
the specialists, the physios and in the gym building your ankle up
before you can even think about kicking a ball again.
"But the thought of being able to get back on the field is what
keeps you going, no matter how far away that day may seem.
"Valencia is in good hands. United's medical team are excellent
and always keep your spirits up.
"He will get so much support from the fans too. They were always
sending me messages while I was out and I'm sure it will be the
same for Antonio.
"I really felt for him and it brought back memories of my injury
at Anfield.
"It's strange sometimes what causes serious injuries.
"Mine was caused by blocking a free-kick when there was no one
near me.
"I just hope, like everyone in football, that Antonio can work
his way through rehab and wish him all the best for a complete
recovery."
