Fulham FC

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Hodgson confirms Smalling exit

27 Jan 2010 - 08:45:07

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Fulham manager Roy Hodgson admits that he is disappointed to be losing defender Chris Smalling, with the England Under-21 international set to tie up a move to Manchester United.

The 20-year-old is set for an Old Trafford medical, with a deal to take him to United for next season almost in the bag, despite interest from Arsenal.

Hodgson told Sky Sports: "The club has accepted an offer from Manchester United and, as far as I know, that is where he is going to be going.

"I knew from some time ago that Manchester United had made the offer and as far as I know terms have been agreed and as far as I know he is going for a medical and will be a Manchester United player next season.

"It's disappointing because we're losing a great talent who has a very exciting future and I would have loved him to play in a Fulham shirt.

"But when United come calling it's not that easy to stand in a player's way.

"I've got to congratulate Alex Ferguson. He'll (Smalling) go on to do great things for Man United and it's a pity I'll be watching him do it for them and not Fulham."