MARTIN Smith is dreading a summer of daytime TV after undergoing a knee operation that will keep him out of action until September.

After putting surgery on hold until the end of the season, the Darlington winger is not expected to return to action until after the 2007/08 campaign gets under way.

The 32-year-old is currently on crutches after going under the surgeon's knife three weeks ago.

However, it will not be until July, when the Darlington squad links up for pre-season training, that Smith will be able to step up his rehabilitation.

The former Sunderland man will miss Darlington's entire programme of friendlies during the summer, although he is hopeful of being fit shortly after the start of next season.

"It's not good when you've had a long season because you just want to enjoy the summer," said Smith.

"I've been in the house for three weeks watching Jeremy Kyle and Trisha. It's not ideal!

"I wanted to wait until the end of the season to get the operation done and now I'm aiming to be back for mid-August.

"I can't start running again until July, when I'll be able to build my fitness up.

"I'll not be able to do pre-season like the rest of the lads and it will be a case of playing catch-up."

After a mixed first season back in the North-East, in which Smith has suffered several injury setbacks since his move from Northampton last summer, the Wearsider remains upbeat.

He said: "If I do everything in the right way then hopefully that will speed up my recovery.

"I've had a couple of years where I've been in this situation, but you just have to be patient, work hard and be positive.

"If I'm being realistic then I'm probably looking at being spot-on in September."

With that in mind Quakers boss Dave Penney is keen to sign a left-sided midfielder following Rory Prendergast's return to Rochdale.