Football
Richard Jolly, ESPN.com writer 9y

Chris Smalling fitness boost for Man United after England illness

Chris Smalling is set to be fit for Manchester United's game against Aston Villa after England manager Roy Hodgson confirmed the defender was not injured when he was substituted against Italy.

Centre-back Smalling came off in the first half of Tuesday's 1-1 draw in Turin, when he was replaced by his United teammate Michael Carrick.

But both manager Hodgson and an FA spokesman said that Smalling was ill, not injured, meaning he ought to be able to retain his place in Louis van Gaal's team.

United will definitely be without one centre-back on Saturday as Jonny Evans is still suspended for spitting at Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse.

Smalling and Phil Jones had formed a fine partnership in the victories over Tottenham and Liverpool but Marcos Rojo, who had been sidelined, was able to come off the bench in the closing minutes at Anfield.

If Robin van Persie, who has had an ankle injury, and Luke Shaw are back in contention, United could have a fully fit squad.

United's England players -- Smalling, Jones, Carrick and captain Wayne Rooney -- will make a later than expected return to Manchester after the flight back to the United Kingdom was delayed for technical issues.

^ Back to Top ^