The Man Utd fans in the Transfer Tavern have often been expecting just a little bit more from Chris Smalling…
The defender has had moments of brilliance, but they’re often seen amongst spells of disappointment, and that’s been the story of his career so far.
In and out of the Man Utd first team since the arrival of Jose Mourinho, he doesn’t look likely to be a regular starter in the future, but at least he’s still got his past successes to look back to.
Indeed, the anniversary of one of those past successes came up yesterday, with the defender taking to Twitter to reflect upon it. The 18th of September marks the anniversary of his first ever Premier League goal, six years to the very day.
6 years to the day since I opened my @PremierLeague account with a belting header in the win v Chelsea. #OnThisDay pic.twitter.com/RKLBuDNcFX
— Chris Smalling (@ChrisSmalling) September 18, 2017
He’s clearly still very proud of that moment, and with good reason. As he describes, it really was a belter of a header.
Though often a divisive figure, most fans have responded positively to his message, with most expecting more in the future. See a small selection of responses from Man Utd fans below…
Christ! Can't believe I forgot it was 6 years ago tbf!
— Ben (@BenH______) September 18, 2017
https://twitter.com/SHADYBASED/status/909818558800175105
https://twitter.com/emilelove77/status/909866915035799552
Smalling is better defender in the world l pleaded he will stay at Manchester
— Baidoo Clement (@BaidooClement2) September 18, 2017
Like to see more of that
— Frear (@Frear3) September 18, 2017
Congratulations….keep it up and score more
— Chipembu Macebo (@ntinove) September 19, 2017
Really, really, really hope that you are in the team when @ManCity come visiting in December.
— Mike O (@40CromwellSt) September 19, 2017
Hat trick Wednesday night Mike
— United redfc (@united_red_fc) September 18, 2017
The cross from Ashley Young tho
— MackAttack (@MackAtttack) September 18, 2017
