The FA have confirmed that England defender Chris Smalling was taken off before the break last night against Italy due to illness.

The Manchester United defender started alongside Phil Jagielka against Italy at the Juventus Stadium, but he was taken off in the 44th minute after he looked dazed following a challenge before the half-time break.




There were doubts that the defender has picked up an injury, but the FA revealed that Smalling was feeling ill therefore he was taken off to be replaced by Manchester United team-mate Michael Carrick.

The 25-year-old has been in fine form for Manchester United in recent weeks and played a major role in their back-to-back wins over Tottenham and Liverpool respectively.
 


He will be assessed by Manchester United’s medical staff after he returns from Turin this morning and Louis van Gaal will be hoping that the defender is declared fit for their clash against Aston Villa this Saturday.

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Smalling has struggled with injuries this season and has made 22 appearances for Manchester United in all competitions.

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