Newcastle finalised his £6m signing from Manchester United to give him the chance of first team football after limited appearances for the Red Devils since a £7m move from Leeds United three years ago.
Smith: "I am an honest player and the interest from others comes because they know what they are going to get from me all of the time," said Smith, who was never in any doubt about which club he would join.
"I am always hungry as a player to do as well as possible, both for my club and personally. I have sacrificed myself for every club I have been at, playing out of position, because my duty is to the good of the team, not myself.
"I spoke to Sam (Allardyce) who said I will be playing in different positions at Newcastle, but if a manager wants you to play, I will play anywhere. I'm happy to be versatile.
"There were a few interested in me. People speak about my commitment and they know what they are going to get. However, a lot of people forget I can play as well.
"I wanted everything done before the weekend so I could get a pre-season game in. Since Sunday it has been a bit of a whirlwind.
"We came back from Malaysia and that's when I first got my head round the fact I was moving on. Once we got our heads round that we started speaking to other managers. Once a club accepts a bid, you have to ask yourself if you are going to get the opportunity to go out and perform. You need that, but I don't think I ever let myself down at United.
"You can tell from the fans' reaction they didn't want me to go and that speaks volumes. I just thought it was time to move on. I'm 26 and I want to be making an impact on the first team. I have come to be versatile, but if anyone is to see the best of me, I think that is at centre forward. I enjoy playing in midfield, but perhaps a bit more attacking. However, if someone asks you to play wherever, you do it.
"The fans' side of things is difficult because Newcastle demand big things because there hasn't been much success. I know that is what people want. However, Leeds and Man United demand 100% week in week out as well and Newcastle won't be any different. I will be giving my all every time I pull on the shirt and that is what supporters want to see.
"Once I spoke to the gaffer he told me how much he wanted me to come and be part of what he is trying to do. That was enough for me.
"I like what Sam is trying to create in terms of the stability and professionalism. He is trying to change it from what there was previously. He wants to give the players here and the club the best opportunity to win something. He wanted me to be part of that."