Roma defender Chris Smalling says he'll be better after making his debut for Roma on Wednesday night.

The on-loan Manchester United defender played the entire 90 minutes for loan side Roma in midweek as they lost 2-0 to Atalanta in Serie A.

“Yes, a bit, but this was my first competitive game of the season," Smalling told the Roma website when asked about his cramp.

"I knew that. So come 70 minutes I was starting to feel it a little bit in the legs. But I know having this first game in the bank, for the next game I'll be a lot stronger and sharper for it.

"Each game is going to be a tough battle. Today there were two teams that did not give much away, and there were only one or two chances in it. Each game is going to be a battle but that is a challenge I'm relishing.

“I enjoyed being back playing. It was my first game and I enjoyed playing at the stadium. But I just want to help the club achieve some big targets this season."