Chris Smalling feels that he and
Manchester United have a lot to thank Louis van Gaal for in the light of
his sacking. The central defender concedes that the Dutchman has really
helped himself and the Manchester United team improve as a defensive
unit.
The club along with third place Tottenham Hotspur conceded just 35 goals in the 38 Premier League games
played last season meaning that the Red Devils had one of the best
defensive records in the league. Many tipped Smalling to be named in the
PFA Team of the Season
due to being one of the stand-out performers in a United squad that
certainly included many underperformers, however, he was just pipped to
that honour by Spurs’ Toby Alderweireld and the league winners Leicester
City’s captain Wes Morgan. Although, United’s defensive efforts were
recognised with David De Gea making the eleven, adding to that
Smalling’s season on a personal note was also rewarded when he picked up
Players’ Player of the Year at the clubs end of season awards.
In a press conference ahead of England’s first European Championship game against Russia, the Englishman was quick to direct some praise towards his former manager as he reflected on life under the 64-year-old.
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