Manchester United defender Chris Smalling says the time has come for him to be elevated to centre-back for both club and country.
Smalling’s comments came after Roy Hodgson presented him with the rare opportunity of playing in his favoured position in England’s final group game with Costa Rica which ended 0-0.
After contributing to a clean sheet in his first World Cup appearance, Smalling later expressed his desire to play at centre-half on a more regular basis.
“Roy knows that I am a centre-back and I really want to cement a starting place and be that number one,” Smalling told TheFA.com.
“It’s the end of the season now, so obviously we will go on a break. But I feel that if I get my chance like I did against Costa Rica, I can go out there and deliver.”
Since making his United debut nearly four years ago, Smalling has predominately played at right-back in his 123 appearances.
But the summer departures of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic will present Smalling with a chance to stake a claim at the heart of United’s defence.
“Next season I will look to really kick on and cement my position,” said Smalling, a twice a Premier League winner.
“Hopefully, if I can go back to my club in the summer and do that, I can hopefully cement it for England as well. I am ready for this chance and it is about time I took it.”
Smalling would have hoped to showcase his talents on the biggest stage in this year’s World Cup but was reduced to just one appearance.
However, he did express his delight of being part of the squad and was overwhelmed by the England support, especially against Costa Rica, when England’s exit from the tournament had already been confirmed.
“It was a really touching moment that they were really right behind us at the end,” he added.
“Even when we got to the hotel in Belo Horizonte, they were cheering us all the way despite the disappointment.
“You could accept it if they turned on us but they didn’t – they have been terrific all the way through. It was great to see and it will drive us on for next time to make sure we deliver.”
Main image courtesy of England Football Official via YouTube, with thanks.
