Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has described Chris Smalling as a "leader" after giving the English defender the captain's armband for the first time.
With skipper Wayne Rooney out injured for today's Premier League game against Arsenal, Smalling has been chosen to lead the Red Devils out at Old Trafford.
"I believe Chris Smalling has been the leader of our defence," Van Gaal told Sky Sports News. "I have watched and observed him, that is why he is captain today."
Smalling has made 28 appearances for United this season and scored four goals from defence.
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