Former Roma fullback Ashley Cole is happy seeing Chris Smalling impressing at his former club.

The Manchester United defender is on a season-long loan with Roma, where directors have confirmed they wish to sign him permanently.

Cole says: "A lot depends on how you feel, I saw that he is always playing and he is having fun. At United, instead, he didn't get on the pitch. When the years go by you start to think about where you can have fun, United is great club but at the moment he plays and is enjoying life, culture and Italian football.

"I would say it is the main thing. I hope he stays and helps Roma move up in the standings because at the moment it is not good enough."