"Smudger" is a Liverpudlian midfielder who joined Norwich as a trainee in November 1987, signing professional terms in July 1989. This youth side was particularly productive as Smudger's teammates included Andy Johnson, Lee Power, Daryl Sutch and Robert Ullathorne. His first team debut came in April 1990 against Derby County but he was unable to ensure a regular place in the City midfield. After making only 18 appearances for Norwich, he joined Oxford United for £100,000 in July 1994 and was a regular in their midfield. David made 198 league appearances for Oxford, scoring twice

In February 1999, David escaped debt-ridden Oxford by joining Gary Megson's Stockport County. Other Canaries at Edgeley Park included Mike Phelan, Colin Woodthorpe and Mike Flynn. David didn't fit into new Stockport manager Andy Kilner's plans and so was transfer listed at the beginning of the 99/00 season .According to Sport First on 28th November 1999, Bristol City manager Tony Pulis wanted to snap up the midfielder but had yet to submit a formal bid. County were said to value David at £200,000. He forced his way back into the first team and made 34 appearances in 2000/01 taking his career total for Stockport to 60.

New Stockport manager Carlton Palmer let David exit on loan to neighbours Macclesfield at the beginning of February 2002. He returned to Stockport but following their relegation to Division Two, David was released as Palmer sought to build a younger side.

David joined Irish side Drogheda United but hoped to return to Macclesfield. However the international transfer embargo imposed by FIFA porhibited this move until the transfer window opened in January 2003. On 30th January 2003, David signed for the Silkmen on a contract until the end of the 2003/04 season. This was not renewed in May 2004.

According to the Norwich matchday programme for the game against Fulham on 9th February 2013, David set up his own business as a celebrity chauffeur upon retiring, his clients including footballers linked to the Stellar agency and comedian John Bishop.