Smalling: I want to stay at manchester united for the rest of my life

Chris Smalling says he hopes to stay at Manchester United for the rest of his career.

The 21-year-old defender has impressed at Old Trafford since joining from Fulham last year and has been able to cement a spot at right-back this season both for club and country.

And despite his tender years, he hopes to follow in the footsteps of current and former team-mates Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes who came through the academy and stayed at the club for their entire careers.

"I don't look too far ahead but I hope I can really get an established career and stay here for the rest of my life," Smalling told Inside United.

"I want to get more and more games as my time goes on because I really feel part of this club.

"I'm really enjoying my football at the minute. The manager has full faith in me and I want to repay that in the years to come."

Smalling was joined this year by fellow defender Phil Jones from Blackburn Rovers, whom he partnered in the European Under-21 championships this summer. Jones has been forced to play in the back four alongside Smalling due to the absence of the injured Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, but according to his team-mate, he too has a bright future at Old Trafford.

"He doesn't take any nonsense and is strong in the air," Smalling added.

"He is good on the ball too and plays some great passes, even in training. You can see glimpses of his talent. "I am sure fans will soon appreciate his technical ability and grow to love that aspect of his game as the season goes on"


goal.com