Smalling has 'nothing to prove' to Southgate

The Manchester United defender was left out by Gareth Southgate for England's friendlies against German and Brazil as the head coach suggested he had concerns over Smalling's passing ability.

However, after scoring in United's 4-1 victory over Newcastle at the weekend, Smalling has shrugged off the snub, insisting that he is happy as long as he is playing regularly under Mourinho for his club.

"I don't feel like I really need to prove anything to Gareth because I play under one of the biggest and most successful managers in Jose and he's only going to pick the best players," Smalling said.

"While I'm playing regularly and he is happy I think ultimately if my season carries on like this and we have a successful season and our team still concedes very few goals, then I think it gives him maybe no choice in the summer but to pick me.

"I've been getting a good run of games over these last few months and I'm feeling good and that's the feeling you want, you want to be able to play regular games and be a part of a successful team.

"So far we have been successful, it's just making sure we keep this going and improve on last year where we got two trophies and we want to at least beat that."

Smalling is still confident that he can earn a place in the England squad for the World Cup in Russia next summer.

"I play for one of the biggest clubs and under one of the most successful managers in Jose and while that's the case I think, ultimately, it is your club form that decides whether you play at a World Cup because there aren't that many England games throughout the season," he added.

"While I'm playing regularly here and being a part of a very successful team I think that should show come the summer."