Manchester United defender Chris Smalling is hoping to continue his fine start to the season by adding consistency to his game.

United may have been unconvincing so far this season but their defence has to be credited following three consecutive clean sheets and the man at the heart of the Red Devils' fine form at the back has been Smalling.

Smalling has been earning widespread acclaim for his performances so far and the defender is keen on continuing his fine form by becoming more consistent.

Smalling said: "That is the case. I have always liked that competition with the striker and obviously Daley (Blind) is not that sort of centre-back who is going to dominate, so it's a case of I take that mantle on and I am enjoying it.

"I wouldn't say I hadn't done it previously in games because I feel like I bullied quite a few players in matches. But it's a case of making sure there is that consistency and, hopefully, I can get that consistency where it can be on show every week. I feel like I am playing well and I am enjoying my football.

"It is good to keep playing each game and knowing that there are not too many changes at the moment because we are doing well, so I hope to keep that up. It's comfortable playing next to Daley.

"Sometimes if there is a big opponent we will swap around. But he can handle himself as well so I am enjoying playing alongside him. He has played at wing-back and full-back as well. All across the back four, they can look after themselves – Luke (Shaw), (Matteo) Darmian as well."