Smalling Provides Update On Injury

Chris Smalling has provided a boost for Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal by confirming he will be fit for the Emirates FA Cup semi-final, after limping through the closing stages of Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Crystal Palace.

The defender, who has been outstanding this term, flew into a sliding challenge as the Reds were wrapping up a comfortable Barclays Premier League victory at Old Trafford, but worryingly emerged with an apparent injury that could have harmed his chances of featuring against Everton on Saturday.

However, while speaking to MUTV after the final whistle, Smalling thankfully revealed he should be okay. “Yeah I’ll be fine,” said Chris. “It was just a 50/50 and he caught me after, but it's nothing serious.”

The England international enjoyed a comfortable evening against the Eagles, who seemed willing to sit back and frustrate the Reds, and when the visitors did come forward, United's defence held firm for a 17th clean sheet in 34 league games this season, a stat that delighted Smalling.

"The defensive record is something we're proud of as a team, and especially as a back four, because that's our job, it's nice to get another clean sheet," he added. "We keep each other in line and keep talking, because we don't want our concentration to slip."

The result caps off a pleasing week for United, who kept themselves in the hunt for a top-four place with wins over Palace and Aston Villa, as well as setting up an FA Cup semi-final clash against Everton at Wembley, and Smalling was quick to acknowledge the progress made in the last seven days.

"I think we've done exactly what we've needed to do, and it's about having City and Arsenal looking over their shoulder, and we've put a bit more pressure on," he said. "Now we look forward to Saturday."