Smalling Excited By Wembley Semi-final

Chris Smalling is relishing the prospect of a trip to Wembley on Saturday for the Emirates FA Cup semi-final against Everton and says confidence is high in the Manchester United squad after three wins in a row.

After beating West Ham United in the cup last week to reach the last-four stage, the Reds have sealed back-to-back Barclays Premier League victories over Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.

Smalling featured in another solid defensive display on Wednesday night and with United's attack also looking potent against Palace, it's little wonder that the centre-back and his team-mates are eagerly anticipating Saturday's trip to the national stadium.

"I'm looking forward to it because it's going to be a great occasion," said Smalling, who has played in three Wembley victories for United, all in the Community Shield.

"Hopefully we can do the job against Everton and get back there for a second visit [for the final]."

While Palace boss Alan Pardew made several changes to his side for Wednesday's game, no doubt with one eye on his own semi-final clash with Watford on Sunday, Smalling started in a strong United side and Louis van Gaal's selection was vindicated as the Reds triumphed 2-0 at a canter.

"It was a comfortable win," said the defender, who confirmed his fitness after an injury concern. "I think we controlled the game from the start to the finish and we created a lot of chances, so we've got a good feeling going into Saturday."

United will be aided in the quest to reach the club's first FA Cup final since 2007 by the return of several first-team players from injury, with Wayne Rooney being the most recent player to rejoin the fold. Smalling says the extra bodies are a boost and believes the manager will welcome more options.

"A lot of the lads have been coming back into the team in the last couple of games, and everyone's getting fitter," he added on MUTV. "The manager's now in a great position to pick a strong team, and hopefully one that is ready to go out there and do the job on Saturday."