5) Manchester United: Chris Smalling
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Gone are the days when Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic reinforced the defensive line at Manchester United and formed a formidable partnership at the back. In contrast, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, who were understudies at the time, have sadly failed to live up to the reputation of Sir Alex Ferguson’s phenoms in defence.
Smalling, in particular, has plateaued under Louis van Gaal and now Jose Mourinho. While there were a few flashes in the pan that seemed to suggest he was on the right track, his failures in key moments have only highlighted the fact that he is yet to play with a composure required of a central defender. And at 27, he no longer has the “youngster” tag to hide behind.
Red cards in vulnerable moments are what make him a major liability to the side. Eric Bailly has already shown that Mourinho is not averse to buying a good defender to fill in and he may as well invest again this summer.
With Wayne Rooney and Michael Carrick almost assured of leaving Old Trafford this summer, the captain’s armband would pass on to Smalling. In truth, Mourinho and United should probably reconsider his spot in the squad.
Possible destination: Newcastle United would be ideal as they look to consolidate their Premier League status under Rafa Benitez.
