Manchester United's Chris Smalling 'ruled out injured until Christmas'

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has added to the club's injury woes after reportedly being ruled out until Christmas with a muscle tear.

The England international was forced off the pitch during United's 2-1 victory over Southampton at St Mary's on Monday evening.

According to The Mirror, while scans have shown that the injury is not as bad as first feared, the 25-year-old is expected to be on the sidelines for the next two weeks.

The injury has forced Smalling out of Sunday's clash against arch rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford, as well as the Red Devils' visit to Aston Villa on December 20.

Reports have claimed that the defender, who has suffered from numerous groin and thigh problems this season, could return for United's home match against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.