Chris Smalling: 'Matteo Darmian has hit ground running at Manchester United'

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has paid tribute to full-back Matteo Darmian's early-season form for the Red Devils.

The Italian international joined Man United from Torino in the summer transfer window and has started every league game for the club this season.

The 25-year-old's form thus far has brought a host of praise and now Smalling has had his say on the right-back.

"He has come into the club and he hasn't needed any time to settle in. He has literally hit the ground running and that is full credit to him, to be able to adjust to a different league and a different culture. He has improved the team in such a short space of time," Smalling told United Review.

Darmian started Saturday's 3-0 win over Sunderland at left-back, with Antonio Valencia coming into the XI on the opposite side.