Chris Smalling, Manchester United Agree to Contract Extension Through 2022

Chris Smalling has extended his stay at Manchester United for another four years after signing a contract extension, the club announced on Saturday. The England international called it a "real honour" to represent the Red Devils after penning fresh terms, per BBC Sport's Simon Stone:

Jose Mourinho expressed his happiness with the centre-back's decision:

Having Smalling for the long haul means Mourinho and United still have a plethora of options at the heart of defence. The problem has been putting together combinations that work, particularly amid a growing injury crisis:

United have conceded 26 goals in 16 matches in the Premier League this season and have kept a mere two clean sheets in England's top flight so far this campaign.

Smalling has started 13 of those matches while playing the third-most league minutes for the club. The 29-year-old hasn't been a model of consistency, though, and has had a host of partners next to him.

Eric Bailly, Victor Lindelof, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo have all started at different times. A lack of continuity has hampered the performances of every United centre-back, including Smalling.

Mourinho's switching between a back four and a three-man defence has also caused issues. Midfielders Nemanja Matic and Scott McTominay have both played as makeshift central defenders in the latter formation.

United are looking for a reliable presence, and Smalling may be the closest, even if his decision to stay may not alter the club's transfer plans:

While not everybody is convinced by Smalling, Mourinho appears to be in no doubt about his value. He has given the defender extra time off to get fit for Sunday's trip to face Liverpool, according to Metro's Sean Kearns.

An injury-hit United defence needs Smalling's experience to help get the team's season back on track and push for a top-four finish.