Chris Smalling has become a "leader" for Roma as he reaps the benefits of his relationship with Roma boss Jose Mourinho.
Now aged 32, Smalling is arguably in the form of his career for the Italian giants – whom he joined from Manchester United, initially on a loan deal, in 2019. He has clocked up over 100 appearances for the Giallorossi and his resurgence in form has prompted talk of a call-up to the England squad for this year's World Cup.
Roma general manager Tiago Pinto has opened up to Mirror Football on Smalling's importance at the club and believes his understanding with Mourinho, for whom he was a regular in the heart of United's defence during their time together at Old Trafford, has provided a huge boost to the club.
