For the last few seasons, Manchester United fans have craved a top centre back but despite all of the big money signings, not a single central defender was brought in.
Since the retirement and departure of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidić, United have lacked a strong presence at the back. Chris Smalling and Phil Jones sustained regular injuries, and were never played consistently; and Jonny Evans was never good enough to be a Red Devil.
But Super Chris has finally stepped up to become the defender that Sir Alex Ferguson envisioned him to be, when he signed him from Fulham.
Smalling’s club and international captain Wayne Rooney has revealed how impressed he’s been with Smalling’s progress as a player and a team leader.
Speaking to United Review, the Manchester United forward said:
“Yeah, I have been he has been incredible and for me he is right up there in world football in terms of centre-halves.
“He is in the top three centre-halves in the world – I think he is that good! He is a great player and he is developing to become more of a leader of the back four.
“It is great to see for both United and England, and hopefully that can continue for him and he can help us to be successful.”
Chris Smalling’s performances have arguably been the most impressive part of Manchester United’s campaign so far. The English defender may be given a well earned rest in midweek, as United face Middlesbrough in the League Cup.
