Source: PA
Smalling eager to grab United chance
Chris Smalling is determined to seize every opportunity to prove he is worthy of a Manchester United first team place.
Smalling capped an excellent first half-season at Old Trafford following his surprise move from Fulham by claiming man-of-the-match honours in Tuesday night's win over Stoke.
Despite making his first Premier League start, the 21-year-old performed with admirable maturity in subduing a powerful Stoke front line.
"It is nice to hear some positive words from the manager," Smalling said. "At the start of the season I got to play every other week but I haven't had a game for the last few weeks. Hopefully I can make my presence felt and get many more.
"For the time being, it is all about concentration and consistency. That will improve the more I play. I know Vida and Rio are the first choices, I just have to make sure I do equally well when I come in, so I know I am playing my part."
