Will Power

Monday, November 9, 2015

Smalling Proud Of Reds' Defensive Record

Chris Smalling says he is proud of Manchester United's defensive form this season, especially now that the Reds have kept five consecutive clean sheets in all competitions.

Louis van Gaal's men have not conceded a goal in 555 minutes of competitive football, with the last concession being Seydou Doumbia's goal during the 1-1 draw at CSKA Moscow on 21 October.

Smalling has arguably been the Reds’ star performer this term and deservedly won ManUtd.com’s Player of the Month award for October following a series of impressive displays at the heart of the defence.

The England international's form this campaign has also led to team-mate Wayne Rooney naming him in the top three defenders in world football at present, which is high praise indeed from the captain.

In an interview with MUTV, Smalling said he is happy with his performances and the defence as a whole, particularly when the boss has been forced to make changes because of injury or suspension.

“Over the last year we have had a very good record and in the last month we've had many clean sheets and as a back four, that's really pleasing,” explained Chris. “We’ve been able to do that even when we've had a few changes in the back four and have stuck together.

"Everyone knows their jobs so it's great to be a part of such a good defensive unit, especially knowing that we've always got that chance of scoring at the other end if we can keep it tight.”

Smalling was quick to point out that every member of the team makes an important contribution in helping the Reds keep as solid as possible.

“I think a lot of managers say that it starts from the front and us as defenders know it helps our job when the front two strikers put that pressure on," he added.

"If they can do that it makes our job a lot easier. You know that without the whole team working together, it's a very hard job for the defenders, so everyone plays a part.”

0 Comments:

Post a Comment

<< Home