United's Smalling wants perfect Christmas
Published 22:30 20/12/11 By David McDonnell
Chris Smalling says his Manchester United side must prove they “mean business” by stepping up a gear in the title race – starting at Fulham.
United’s title defence has looked unconvincing, with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side digging out a series of narrow wins to stay within touching distance of leaders Manchester City.
With the gap now down to two points, defender Smalling has urged his team-mates to go on a winning run over Christmas and New Year, to put themselves in a position to launch a championship charge in 2012.
Smalling, who is in line to face former club Fulham for the first time on Wednesday night - he was an an unused sub in last season’s 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage - said: “The players always look forward to this time of year, with plenty of games.
“We’re used to the demands and it’s a big opportunity to pick up a lot of points – we want to get maximum points.
“Christmas can be a hindrance to some and can sometimes make or break you in terms of kicking on.
“But this is a period where we really need to kick on and show everybody we mean business.”
With Nemanja Vidic out for the season, Rafael Da Silva working his way back from injury and Phil Jones excelling in a midfield role, Smalling is currently United’s first-choice right-back.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a meteoric rise. In 2008, he was playing for non-League Maidstone, but he moved to United for £10million in January 2010 and is now an England international.
He has paid tribute to Fulham for giving him the platform to prove himself.
“I see my time there as a big two years,” said Smalling. “My first year was about finding my feet, the second was about showcasing what I can do.
“Without [then-Fulham boss] Roy Hodgson giving me my chance there, I wouldn’t be here, so it’s a time I look upon fondly. It’ll be nice to go back and see a few of the players at the Cottage.”
United boss Ferguson is ready for the congested Christmas and New Year fixture programme, which also includes home games against Wigan on Boxing Day and Blackburn on New Year’s Eve.
“It’s not as severe as normal,” said the Scot. “One December had 10 games in it.
“It’s the same for everyone and there’s nothing you can do about it.
“The intensity of games has increased and the pitches are better, although I expect them to be softer and heavier in December, depending on the weather.
“It’s always going to be very, very exhausting.”
Would you like to know more?:
