Chris Smalling is hoping to overcome injury in time for Manchester United's clash with boyhood club Arsenal.

Smalling, 26, has been one of the few bright spots in a mixed season at Old Trafford, making him a genuine challenger for David De Gea's player-of-the-season mantle.

He has been a mainstay in Louis van Gaal's side and Thursday's 5-1 defeat of FC Midtjylland in the Europa League was just the second match he has missed all campaign.

The defender is hoping to avoid a third absence when Arsenal arrive in the north west on Sunday, having made good progress on a shoulder complaint sustained in Monday's FA Cup win at Shrewsbury.