Smalling signs five-year deal with Man Utd

England defender Chris Smalling has committed his long-term future to Manchester United after signing a contract extension on Friday.

The 21-year-old penned terms on a new five-year-deal with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side and immediately declared his intention to remain at the club for some time.

Smalling – who was signed from Fulham in 2010 – has impressed in his brief stay in Manchester and will be joined at the club by England Under-21 defensive partner Phil Jones this season, after he transferred from Blackburn Rovers in June.

“This is a great club,” Smalling said.

“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.”

Ferguson was pleased with Smalling’s decision to commit to the club long-term and described the defender as a ‘great asset’.

“Chris has been outstanding since joining us from Fulham last year,” Ferguson said.

“He is an extremely talented young defender. He is quick, strong and reads the game well. He is a great asset to the team.”