Smalling eager to impress Fergie despite bit-part role

CHRIS SMALLING is determined to seize every opportunity to prove he is worthy of a Manchester United first team place.

Smalling capped an excellent first half-season at Old Trafford following his surprise move from Fulham by claiming man-of-the-match honours in Tuesday night’s win over Stoke.

Despite making his first Premier League start, the 21-year-old performed with admirable maturity in subduing a powerful Stoke front line.