Manchester United have confirmed that, after much speculation surrounding his future, England international Chris Smalling has signed a new contract at the club. It’s a deal which will keep Smalling at Manchester United until 2019 at the earliest.
Manchester United coach, Louis van Gaal, is quoted on ManUtd.com as saying:
“Chris has improved and developed immensely during the short time that I have been at the club and has become an integral part of the first-team squad. He always conducts himself in a very professional manner and it is also pleasing that he has scored some important goals this season too. I am delighted he has signed a new contract.”
Smalling has indeed improved vastly over the last season. At times under David Moyes he looked bereft of confidence and skill with the ball at his feet. Not too long ago he was the subject of reported interest from Arsenal.
Smalling has improved dramatically
But he has knuckled down and ironed a lot of the inconsistencies out of his game under LvG. He is blessed with many of the natural attributes required to be a stalwart for club and country over the next few years. He’s commanding in the air due to his height, really quick and also a top athlete.
There is still room for improvement in terms of his ball control and distribution but the Manchester United boss clearly feels that he has a big part to play in the future of the club. It’s easy to imagine him being a really good foil for Mats Hummels should he join the club in the summer. Hummels’ distribution and composure on the ball would complement the pace and aerial ability of the 25 year old Englishman.
Let’s see some of his big moments for Manchester United. Reds fans: a future stalwart or just a decent squad member?
