Smalling hails Van Gaal impact

• Manchester United defender Chris Smalling hailed manager Louis van Gaal as the reason behind his upturn in form and believes he is now playing the best football of his career.
• Smalling has struggled for consistency since joining United from Fulham in 2010 but the 25-year-old has flourished under Van Gaal this season, making 22 Premier League appearances.
• Smalling, part of England's squad to travel to Turin to play Italy in a friendly on Tuesday, gave an assured performance alongside Phil Jones in United's 3-0 win over Liverpool last weekend and is now targeting a successful end to the season.
• "The manager has shown a lot of faith in me, especially over the last couple of months," Smalling told a news conference on Sunday ahead of the Italy game.
• "The manager has chosen me and I am enjoying my football. I think he is very honest. He says what you are doing very well and what you can improve. He has real belief in you.
• "We have got another eight games, so we will look to finish as strong as we can."
• Smalling's contract is set to expire at the end of next season and media reports have linked him with a move away from United, but the former Fulham defender hopes his long-term future is at Old Trafford.
• "I have always enjoyed playing for United, especially at the minute," he said. "If I can contribute then I am happy to stay as long as they want me."
• Fourth-placed United host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday.