Ali Smith joined the Imps on a two-year contract as a free transfer in the summer of 2023 after the conclusion of his contract with Sutton United. 

The young midfielder had an impressive two years at Gander Green Lane, scoring 14 times in 78 appearances and was voted their Young Player of the Year during the 22/23 campaign.

Smith made 32 appearances for City in his first season at the club scoring once before spending the second half of the 23/24 campaign on loan at Sky Bet League Two side Colchester United. 

At the beginning of his career Smith featured at Mansfield Town, Kettering Town and Altrincham.