Smalling has nothing to prove

Smalling: Pleased with form

Chris Smalling is looking forward to returning to Stamford Bridge, but insists he has nothing to prove.

The Manchester United defender will be back in West London on Wednesday when the Red Devils take on Chelsea in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final.

A highly-anticipated European encounter comes a month after the two Premier League heavyweights met in a crucial domestic tie.

Chelsea prevailed on that occasion, with a penalty conceded by Smalling allowing them to snatch a 2-1 come-from-behind success.

That contest provided another important lesson for United's 21-year-old defender, as he continues with his Old Trafford learning curve, but he claims he will have no demons to exorcise when he lines up against the Blues again in midweek.

"I still don't think it was a penalty and that I was hard done by," Smalling said of a challenge which saw Yuri Zhirkov tumble inside the box.

Momentum

"But you get those in your career and what's important is how you react, and we've kicked on with our performances.

"The games are coming round thick and fast. It's another massive stage for myself.

"To be able to play in these latter stages of the Champions League is what most players in the world would dream to be part of.

"I can't wait to play my part. I've managed to be involved, play games and keep my momentum going. I don't feel I've got anything to prove.

"Even when we played at their place they didn't create too many chances.

"We're going into Wednesday with a lot of confidence, and so we should."