Chris Smalling rewarded with new deal

Manchester United have announced that defender Chris Smalling has signed a new five-year contract at Old Trafford.

United won the race to sign Smalling from Fulham last summer, paying the London club a fee in the region of £9 million for the youngster's signature.
The centre-back totalled 33 appearances for the Red Devils last eason, impressing as his side claimed the Premier League title.
And, following further fine displays for the England Under-21s this summer, United have moved to extend Smalling's current terms.

"I am delighted Chris has signed a new contract," said United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. "Chris has been outstanding since joining us from Fulham last year.
"He is an extremely talented young defender. He is quick, strong and reads the game well. He is a great asset to the team."
Smalling himself added: "This is a great club and in the short time I have been here I have already achieved more than I could have ever expected to. I am looking forward to a long and successful career at Manchester United."

It seems likely that Smalling will play an even greater role in the forthcoming campaign following the departures of experienced pair Wes Brown and John O'Shea.