Chris Smalling fires Man United warning at Chelsea FC
Chris Smalling discusses the significance of Manchester United's 2-1 win over Chelsea FC on Sunday
Chris Smalling believes that Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Chelsea FC has given them a huge advantage in the race for Champions League qualification this season.
The Red Devils came from a goal down to claim an important victory over the west London side at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon as they boosted their hopes of finishing in the top four this season.
Manchester United’s win moved them back up into second place in the Premier League table and boosted their hopes of securing qualification for next season’s Champions League.
However, the defeat dealt a damaging blow to Chelsea FC’s hopes of finishing in the top four, with the west London side now down in fifth place in the table.
And Manchester United defender Smalling believes that Sunday’s result will be an important one for the Red Devils as the season unfolds.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Smalling said: “I think being able to beat a rival, it’s almost like a six-pointer because of how close we are.
“The confidence just breeds (confidence) and we’re ready for the next one. I think considering how close we are in the table, I think it gives them a massive blow and us a lift.
“I think all of us, especially that top five, are probably all going to be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.
“These are huge games and I think the fact we play a lot of our rivals at home is going to be a big factor because of our home form.”
Next up for Manchester United is a trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Monday night.
Chelsea FC, meanwhile, will aim to get back to winning ways when they take on Manchester City at The Etihad on Sunday afternoon as they look to get back into the top four.
