Crystal Palace’s current defensive situation needs immediate attention and a number of defenders have been linked with the Eagles so far. Chris Smalling’s unsettled situation at Manchester United has alarmed the Premier League clubs and a host of them have started to contemplate a move for the player.
West Bromwich Albion have already expressed their interest and if reports are to be believed, Crystal Palace have joined them in the race. Frank de Boer is currently running short of defenders and wants an imminent solution at Selhurst Park.
Despite uncertainty hovering over Chris Smalling’s future, Jose Mourinho has taken him on the pre-season tour and it could be his last chance to prove his worth. United are pretty well stocked in the defensive section so if Smalling does leave, it won’t be much of a problem for the Portuguese gaffer.
Smalling was one of the most improved defenders under the guidance of former manager Louis Van Gaal and the Dutchman even touted him to be the next captain of the Red Devils.
But things seem to have changed a lot as he failed to capitalise on the chances afforded to him last season. Despite starting the season very well, subsequent injuries proved to be a barrier to his progress as Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind and Phil Jones all moved ahead of him in the pecking order.
He was even at the receiving end of Mourinho who questioned his attitude after the player injured himself during the most crucial period of last season and was accused of not giving his best in training. Phil Jones does have the knack of getting injured frequently but if he remains fit he is someone Mourinho can utilise in a number of ways.
Smalling’s basic problem is his inconsistency and if you want to survive at a club like Manchester United, you have to give it all on the pitch.
Nowadays, every coach emphasises on the idea of a ball playing defender in his team but Smalling is not the best passer of the ball.
The 27-year-old has 31 Three Lions caps under his belt and arguably has been one of the most experienced defenders in the squad. Considering his latest situation, he needs to find adequate game time to find a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad. Currently, there are a plethora of defenders available for selection so he needs to be at his peak to get the first preference.
