THE NEW SMALLING FAN CLUB

BRYAN ROBSON has paid Chris Smalling a huge compliment by likening his recent performances to those of Paul McGrath and Gary Pallister.

Five years after signing for Manchester United, central defender Smalling is yet to convince many Old Trafford fans he is the real deal.

The 25- year- old has even been subjected to fans’ taunts, including in the Manchester derby last November when he was sent off.

But Smalling has since improved markedly and his commanding performance in last week’s 3- 0 win over Tottenham caught the eye of United legend Robson.

The former United captain thinks that bodes well for Sunday’s massive game against Liverpool at Anfield, with the old enemies pushing hard for a top- four finish.

“Chris is a good defender,” said Robson. “I have seen him improve over the last few games.

“His passing is a lot better, a lot crisper, so he has come on to a good game.

“He is in good form at the moment and that will be important at Liverpool.”

Impressed

Smalling kept 26- goal Spurs striker Harry Kane quiet last Sunday and even ventured forward confidently with the ball at his feet.

Robson was so impressed that he declared: “Paul McGrath could do that and so could Gary Pallister.

“When you keep possession at the back, sometimes it’s important that your defenders break past the forwards into the midfield area.

“That means one of your midfield players should be able to get space and I thought Chris did that particularly well against Tottenham.”

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers believes he is now stronger after surviving his side’s early season woes.

The Northern Irishman admits August to December was a tough period for him, when his methods were called into question, but he is flavour of the month once again.

“I’ve said to coaches and players that when the criticism comes, deserved or undeserved, you won’t like it but you have to accept it as it is part of the game,” he said.

“As a manager you have to take the circumstance of where you are at. That won’t fit with results but it is quite easy, you have to stay focused.

“You have to have an inherent belief of how you work, and when it is scrutinised and ridiculed you go back to that platform of why and how you work.

“You know you are going to get it at some stage, and in your career it is important you come out the other side.

Rivalry

“I am early in my career as a manager, but that period benefited me.

“It is the challenge of being a manager at any level, you are scrutinised. But you have to stay calm and believe in your qualities as a coach and manager.”

Rodgers added: “This is an important game. These games in particular are always great spectacles and the rivalry is historic.” SMILES BETTER: Rodgers can laugh now after his early season troubles ( inset)