Chris Smalling’s fitness is the subject of confusion after claims the defender has a broken toe that rules him out for at least a month were denied by Manchester United. Along with Luke Shaw, Smalling made himself unavailable for last Sunday’s 3-1 victory at Swansea City, leading to José Mourinho criticising the 26-year-old before and after the game. However, when this was put to United a partial denial was given, leaving the precise situation regarding Smalling unclear. If he is ruled out for at least a month, Smalling faces a fight to play again before Christmas. The 24-year-old’s start at Swansea was his first appearance since 2 January, due to successive injuries.

Source: The Guardian November 11, 2016 12:55 UTC