Smalling has 'developed' at Roma

By Football Italia staff

Chris Smalling has admitted that he is “making the most of” of his stay at Roma and hopes to earn a spot in the England squad for the upcoming Euro 2020.

The Manchester United loanee has revealed that he is happy with life in the Italian capital so far and aims to finish the season strongly with the Giallorossi.

“I’ve been more than happy with my first half of the season,” he told BBC Sport. “It’s now just making sure that we kick on and finish the season strongly because we have a lot to play for.

“I feel like I’m picking up a lot on Italian style, and tactics and how to manage games. I’m definitely adding to my game. I feel like I’m learning and improving.

“Coming over here and trying to hit the ground running with football was the priority. But my family settling in and me learning the language and enjoying the culture, it’s something you need to make the most of.

“My family and I definitely are.”

A great end to the season might also help spur him on to reclaim a place in England coach Gareth Southgate’s plans ahead of the European Championship this summer.

“Obviously it’s been a couple of years now, but that ambition is always there with England,” he told the broadcaster. “I know that Gareth [Southgate] and the coaching staff have been to a few of my games over here and I guess you know you are in their thoughts if you are playing at a top club.

“I hold those aspirations and I just try to focus on here and what comes, comes. But I would very much like to be part of it, for sure.”

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