Smalling Bruised But Beaming

Having emerged victorious from a physical battle with one of the Premier League’s most robust target men, Chris Smalling was in chipper mood following United’s narrow win over Stoke City.

Hulking Potters striker Kenwyne Jones endured a miserable evening at the hands of Smalling and Nemanja Vidic, and was withdrawn midway through the second period at Old Trafford. Though he’ll undoubtedly have the bruises to show for his evening’s work, Smalling admits he relished the challenge.

“We looked at the footage beforehand and Stoke are a real handful physically, especially Kenwyne Jones,” the defender told MUTV. “He’s been tormenting centre halves this season. I knew it was going to be a really difficult battle but I really enjoyed it out there.

“He’s got a great standing jump so you really have to get about him and really tussle with him. I really enjoyed that side of the game. I’ve played a lot of Champions League games so now I’ve got into different competitions I feel like I’m playing my part. I’m really knocking on that door and hopefully the manager can see that I can play well.”

Having snuffed out the visitors’ chief threat so comprehensively, Smalling also paid tribute to his side’s own match-winners – Chicharito and Nani – who combined clinically for both United goals.

“He (Chicharito) is dangerous,” he said. “When we play little six v fives in training he can be a nightmare to mark. You need your wits about you because he can come from the left or the right. He really deserved his goal.

“Nani’s been a real loss. He’s so important in terms of our goal threat going forward and he’s a real threat down that wing. He scores so many goals with his left foot. Everyone thinks he’s right-footed, but it’s great for him to pop up and get another wonder goal.”