Louis van Gaal hails ‘leader’ Chris Smalling

Louis van Gaal believes Chris Smalling is destined to become Manchester United captain. Smalling will be one of the first names on Van Gaal’s teamsheet when United host City at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Van Gaal called Smalling “stupid” last year for his performance in the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium.

The England international was booked on the half-hour for trying to stop Joe Hart kicking from his hands, and eight minutes later he was dismissed for a late and needless foul on James Milner.