Wednesday 6 April 2016 15:20, UK
Chris Smalling says team-mate Daley Blind deserves more credit for his seamless switch to the heart of Manchester United's defence.
United's 1-0 victory over Everton last Sunday was their 15th clean sheet of the campaign and England defender Smalling insists Blind has played a major part in keeping alive the Reds' hopes of a top-four finish.
Blind was utilised primarily as a midfielder when he joined from Ajax in 2014, but has spent most of this season at centre-back due to an injury to Phil Jones.
"It's great knowing he is naturally a midfielder, so he has that passing range and ability down to a tee and defensively he is very sound as well," Smalling said.
"He deserves more plaudits and I think he will get them if he carries on playing the way he is playing. Everyone is standing up and taking note that Daley is one of the mainstays of this team and he is keeping us ticking."
Louis van Gaal decided to put his trust in Blind rather than enter the transfer market and Smalling believes his faith in his fellow-Dutchman has paid off for the United manager.
"We know we can rely on each other," he added. "When there is a situation you don't have to over cover because you don't trust your partner.
"We trust each other fully and we bring out the best in each other as the games have gone on. He's a joy to play alongside."
United, who beat rivals Manchester City 1-0 prior to their win over Everton, will be looking for a third successive Premier League victory when they take on title-chasing Tottenham at White Hart Lane this Sunday, live on Sky Sports.
