Manchester United

Chris Smalling happy with Manchester United return

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 20 September 2013

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling admits that he was relieved to make his return from injury against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday night.

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has revealed his frustration after spending the majority of last season on the sidelines.

Smalling made just 15 Premier League appearances last season due to injury, but after returning against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday, the England international has admitted that he was delighted to make his comeback to competitive action.

The 23-year-old told the Manchester Evening News: "Last season was very frustrating for me. The first three months and the last two were horrible.

"But I have been fit since the start of the season and have just been waiting for my chance because we have a very competitive squad now.

"I was just glad to get back playing again on Tuesday night. Right-back is not my preferred position, but I know that I can play there if needs be and after such a frustrating time, you are just glad to be back and involved again."

Smalling has played 87 games for United since signing for the club from Fulham in 2010.