09/08/2015 08:38, Report by Ryan Grant & Adam Higgins
Manchester United defender Chris Smalling praised the Reds' five debutants in a vital win over Tottenham Hotspur on the opening day of the 2015/16 Barclays Premier League campaign.
A first-half own goal by Spurs right-back Kyle Walker was the difference between the sides, and while Smalling acknowledges that the United team is still getting into its stride, the result was most important.
Smalling was a stand-out performer at the heart of the defence but reserved his praise for his new team-mates, particularly Sergio Romero and Matteo Darmian.
"Last year, I think we played better [against Swansea on the opening day] but lost the game," he toldMUTV. "I think our shape won us the game against Spurs. It's a step in the right direction.
"I think Sergio looked the part, he came out and commanded his box which is what you want behind you as a defender because, when you've got a goalkeeper who comes out with that presence, it mops up a lot of the danger.
"I think the new signings all slotted in effortlessly and their performances were very good. Darmian at right-back was terrific as well. It was good that they all had the majority of pre-season, apart from Sergio, to gel with our players and I think it showed."
The England international partnered Daley Blind at centre-back in the absence of the injured Phil Jones, and was also impressed by the Dutchman's performance, but added that picking up three points was the priority.
"Daley's an all-round footballer," Smalling added. "He's good on the ball and his positioning is very good which is what you need as a centre-back. He slotted in there nicely.
"I think there were some nerves among the team – not many of the lads have had 90 minutes in pre-season. In the last 15 minutes, there were a few tired legs but we dug in and that really brought us together.
"Last year, we didn't start well in the first three games and it was an uphill battle but I think the celebrations at the end showed how important it was for the players, it was massive."
Source : Premierleague
