Smalling and Jones back to give SAF a perfect birthday present

Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are set to hand United a defensive boost with both in line to return for the New Year’s Eve clash with Blackburn.
The pair missed the 5-0 win over Wigan on Boxing Day due to illness as the Premier League champions’ rearguard was stretched to the limit.

Sir Alex Ferguson – 70 on Saturday – had to resort to playing Michael Carrick and Patrice Evra as makeshift centre-backs when Jonny Evans had to be replaced at half-time because of a calf injury.

Winger, Antonio Valencia, was deployed at right-back as Ferguson continues to shuffle his pack in the face of an injury crisis that has left him short of 11 first-team players.

With Nemanja Vidic ruled out for the season and Rio Ferdinand missing Wigan because of a back complaint the return of Jones and Smalling will be welcome relief ahead of Blackburn.

The England pair have already been called upon to play in various positions this season, but will be teamed in central defence if Ferdinand does not recover in time for Saturday.

United can end the year clear at the top of the table if they avoid defeat against rock-bottom Blackburn, despite their mounting injury problems.

Vidic, Tom Cleverley, Anderson, Darren Fletcher, Ashley Young, Michael Owen and Fabio were already out before Evans injured his calf.

But it has been the versatility and form of Jones and Smalling that has helped United cope such a casualty list.

Jones has been deployed at right-back, centre-back and in midfield this season, while Smalling has played on the right and in the centre of defence.

Meanwhile, Swedish playmaker Rasmus Elm says he is flattered after being linked with a summer switch to United from AZ Alkmaar in a deal worth around £6m.

The 23-year-old has been one of the stars in Holland this season with sources claiming a deal is in place for a move to Old Trafford at the end of the season.

He said: “The interest is flattering, but I have not heard any more about it.”

And another player linked with United, Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote, says he will stay at St James’ Park despite interest from the Premier League’s top clubs.

He said: “I’m not thinking of leaving in January – I’m very happy playing for this club.

“That’s my job and I need to work hard for the team and the club. 

“I have to focus on my job for Newcastle – that’s what I have to do.”