Chris Smalling Injury: Updates on Manchester United Star's Status and Return

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling continues to battle injury issues, but manager Louis Van Gaal said he could make a return on Boxing Day.

Continue for updates. 

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Smalling Could Return vs. Newcastle

Tuesday, Dec. 23

According to Rob Dawson of the Manchester Evening News, Louis van Gaal says Smalling could return against Newcastle on Boxing Day:

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Smalling Suffers Knock In Southampton Clash

Monday, Dec. 10

Manchester United will be without defender Chris Smalling when the Red Devils face Liverpool on Sunday.

Rob Dawson of the Manchester Evening News confirmed the Englishman will sit out after picking up an injury during Monday's victory over Southampton:

David McDonnell of the Daily Mirror believes the muscle tear will keep Smalling sidelined until Christmas, meaning he is also likely to miss the Dec. 20 trip to Aston Villa. The centre-back's latest problem adds to the list of injuries Louis van Gaal's side have faced this season, as noted by The Independent:

Former United assistant manager Mike Phelan believes "new people with a different way of doing things" may be to blame for such a horrific run of injuries, as reported by Chris Wheeler of the Daily Mail. United are third nonetheless, and they will be looking to push on against their fierce rivals.

Smalling has posted a topsy-turvy run of form this campaign. He played poorly upon returning from his initial injury spell and left United's hopes of beating Manchester City destroyed when he was clumsily sent off at the Etihad.

Jon Super/Associated Press

Since returning, however, he has appeared far more assured. Smalling scored during the 3-0 victory over Hull and finally looked to be putting his frame to good use before departing against Southampton.

Luckily for Van Gaal, Jonny Evans' return from injury is well-timed to ensure the side have at least one experienced Premier League defender starting when Liverpool visit.