Chris Smalling has warned Sergio Ramos that he will not step aside for him if the Spaniard completes his transfer to Manchester United this summer.
The Red Devils have seen two bids rejected for Ramos, but Madrid would apparently be willing to sell should they get goalkeeper David de Gea in return.
But Smalling, confirmed by Louis van Gaal as United’s third captain for the 2015-16 season, is unfazed by the prospect of the Spanish World Cup winner taking his place in defence.
“There is always competition at Manchester United,” Smalling is quoted as saying by Sky Sports. “When I signed there were five centre backs already here.
“I had to work hard to get past them. At this club you are always going to be compared with the best and you always play with the best.”
Smalling, 25, has made 151 appearances for United since joining from Fulham for £7m in 2010, and last season established himself as one of the first names on Van Gaal’s team sheet.
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