Chris Smalling has credited manager Louis van Gaal for his consistent performances this season."I think he [Van Gaal] has [improved me], all the coaches I've worked with, especially Louis van Gaal, have helped me," Smalling told Sky Sports.
"We work hard and tirelessly on the training ground with our tactics, we do 11 versus 11s a lot so we know our positions and our roles down to a tee. The repetition has really improved my game and a lot of the other players as well.
"The manager said at the start of the season that once you've been with him for six months and got used to the repetition of drills, the tactics and you know your role that we will get better.
"There has obviously been a lot of ins and outs and, as a group, we've stayed very close-knit.
"Whoever comes in knows their job. We have the training routine and the philosophy of the manager so every player knows what he wants and what he expects of you on the pitch.
"It's very clear to us as players what we need to be done come matchday. We started this season a lot better than we did last season and we can see an improvement."
Smalling suffered thigh and groin injuries last season, but has returned this campaign to become arguably United's best player.
"It's nice to know the manager has got that trust in me and I hope to deliver," he added. "I've really enjoyed it. Considering how last season started, when I was stop-start and didn't pick up until November where I got a consistent run of games.
"So to be able to start with a clean bill of health and to have the manager's faith has given me the confidence to kick on and make sure I have a full season and justify my place."
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