But, despite reports elsewhere, Southgate has no plans to bring in Smith as a full-time assistant manager to replace Malcolm Crosby.
Southgate has retained a very close relationship with Smith, who was his manager when Southgate was developing as a young player at Crystal Palace.
The pair have maintained regular contact and Southgate has drawn on Smith’s experience during the past three years.
However Smith, who spent the whole of his coaching career in London, has moved on to pastures new and has not worked full-time in football for eight years.