Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling will hold showdown talks with Jose Mourinho as he targets regular first team football
The 27-year-old's place in the side is under threat after the Red Devils brought in Victor Lindelof for £31million from Benfica
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MANCHESTER UNITED defender Chris Smalling will hold showdown talks with the club to sort out his future.
The 27-year-old wants assurances that his place in the side will not be hampered with the World Cup looming next summer.
Jose Mourinho has already brought in centre-back Victor Lindelof from Benfica in a £31million deal as he plots to reshuffle his back-line.
Eric Bailly - signed last summer from Villarreal - emerged as the Red Devils' top defender last season, and the Portuguese boss is expected to partner him and the Swede together.
According to the Daily Mail, Smalling is concerned about his position in the squad should they bring in another centre-back.
The report states that he wished to remain at Old Trafford beyond the transfer window, and is still confident he will feature regularly for the Europa League champions.
Marcos Rojo impressed last campaign, but he is recovering from a knee injury that will keep him out of action until at least the mid-season, while Phil Jones is also desperate to stake his place in the side.
Both West Brom and West Ham have been credited with an interest in former Fulham star Smalling, but it is believed that should he depart the Theatre of Dreams he wishes to play for another Champions League club.
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Mourinho was often critical of the England international in his debut season in charge, questioning Smalling's mental attitude and willingness to come back from injury.
Yet he started in both the Europa League final and the EFL Cup final - where he led United out at Wembley against Southampton in the thrilling 3-2 win.
He will hold talks with the club's hierarchy once he returns from his honeymoon in the Seychelles after marrying his partner Sam Cooke.
In seven seasons at United he has won a staggering eight honours, including two Premier League titles and one FA Cup.
He has made 243 appearances in all competitions and has contributed a useful 13 goals for the club.