Man Utd star to miss Chelsea clash, doubtful for Arsenal

Chris Smalling, Manchester United. Photo: Neal Simpson/EMPICS Sport

Tuesday, October 30, 2012
3:50 PM

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has been ruled out of the Capital One Cup clash against Chelsea tomorrow and is a doubt for the visit of Arsenal on Saturday.

The 22-year-old, who broke a metatarsal in the summer, has been hampered by a back problem in recent weeks.

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he doesn’t expect him to be fit and ready for a little while longer, meaning he could have to wait for his comeback until they face Braga and Aston Villa next week.

“We will try to push Chris on quickly,” Ferguson told MUTV.

“I don’t think he will make Wednesday’s game but I am sure he will be ready for the following week.

“There was some hope both he and Phil [Jones] would be back for this busy schedule.

“The good news is they are not far away.”