Smalling: Rio Is The Main Man

Chris Smalling put in another impressive display whilst filling in for Rio Ferdinand in Marseille last night, but acknowledges he won’t be displacing the England captain from the first XI just yet.

“When you get the shirt and a position in the team you don’t want to give it up,” said Smalling. “I understand that Rio is the main man. But when he got injured it was time for me to step up. They are big shoes to fill. Hopefully through my performances and the sort of games and massive occasions I have been playing in, I repay the manager’s faith and justify him playing me. I know I will have to bide my time but I am always going to be ready because no player wants to be sitting on the bench.”