Rumours are abound that Smertin was only signed by Roman Abrimovich as a favour to his home land, as the offical line that the former Girondins de Bordeaux midfielder is "one for the future" hardly stands up - the player turns 29 during the course of the season.
However, that doesn't mean Smertin is a mug. The former Lokomotiv Moscow star has World Cup experience under his belt, not to mention a French League Cup win in 2002 with Bordeaux, helping his team defeat Lorient 3-0.
I understand that as well as centre midfield, Smertin can also play on the wing and in defence.
However, a deal for Juan Pablo Sorin seems to have fallen through due to wage demands. Redknapp is likely to continue his search for a left-back up till Sunday's transfer deadline.