Chris Smalling is battling to be fit for Manchester United's season run in.

Smalling, 27, crocked on England duty last month, has missed United's last eight games, with the United boss questioning the speed of the defender's recovery from injury.

The Sun says the defender was pushing to be available for the draw with Manchester City on Thursday and despite manager Jose Mourinho's comments, he is loving life under the Portuguese boss.

A source revealed: "Chris was in a brace last week and is hungry and is determined to get back playing to help United secure Champions League football and hopefully win the Europa League."