Smalling Hails New-found Spirit At Manchester United

Chris Smalling is confident that a strong team spirit will help Manchester United's push for honours this season.

After a difficult start under Louis van Gaal's management, United are sitting third in the table and are through to the fourth round of the FA Cup on the back of an 11-match unbeaten run.

Smalling is now looking to increase the pressure on their rivals for a top four finish, and believes Van Gaal's philosophy is beginning to pay dividends.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's Sky Live game against Southampton, the United defender told the United Uncovered newsletter: "Going into the New Year on the back of a good run means that it's a case of working even harder to climb the table and get as many points as we can.

"We need to do as much as possible on the pitch and, as an individual, do as much as we can in terms of recovery and extra work. I think the key is to keep to the principles that the manager has set.

"The run shows that we've got a bit of consistency. I think we've really shown our team spirit in games where we've had to dig in or come from behind. It shows how well we all get on.

"We're all happy no matter what position we're in and we work for each other. If we can prolong our consistency and continue our hard work in training, things will click and we'll creep up the league."

Van Gaal is facing a dilemma regarding whether to play Angel di Maria, who scored after playing 30 minutes in the 2-0 FA Cup win over Yeovil, having missed three matches with a hamstring injury.

"Angel di Maria has only played 30 minutes because of the match rhythm I gave him," Van Gaal said.

"I have said I only have one injured player (Ashley Young) but I don't have 100 per cent match-fit players. I have to select the best team and watch the qualities of Southampton."