Smalling eyeing starting role

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling believes he deserves a starting role for England at Euro 2016 after enjoying a consistent campaign domestically.

The Red Devils, who are priced at 2.50 to finish in the top four, boast the second best defensive record in the Premier League due in part to the form of the former Fulham man.

Smalling has been an ever present in the heart of Manchester United’s backline this season after staying clear of injury and he feels that puts him in a strong position when it comes to England duty.

The defender was part of the England squad for the World Cup hosted by Brazil in 2014, however, he was only handed the chance to play in the dead rubber final group match against Costa Rica.

Roy Hodgson preferred the partnership of Phil Jagielka and Gary Cahill for the first two matches against Uruguay and Italy before making wholesale changes for the clash with Costa Rica.

Smalling described himself as a “passenger” for the trip to South America but is certain he deserves more of an opportunity this summer in France.

Smalling said: “I have bigger expectations this time.

“I feel I have put my name right at the forefront and after playing the last two England games I hope I can keep that shirt and carry on my good form into the summer.

“I fully expect to be a part of it if I can keep this up because club form will get you a starting place. Going into the World Cup, it was a very stop-start season for me.

“It wasn’t a full consistent run of matches so you cannot necessarily expect to start in a major tournament, but this year is different.

“I have played consistently and I expect to play a good part in France.”