Chris Smalling isn’t expected to return at the end of the current international break. He has started a new rehab plan that could allow his patellar tendon to heal in two-to-three weeks. The center-back recently had an MRI at the Villa Stuart clinic and consulted with a different specialist, Calciomercato relays.
The extended absence has strained his relationship with José Mourinho, who wanted the Englishman to try playing through the injury. He hasn’t featured since September 1st and has logged just 245 minutes this season.
Next month will be decisive in determining whether Smalling will recover and also devising the January plans. Despite some rumors about Saudi Arabia, the management and the coaching staff don’t plot to offload the veteran. It’ll take a large offer to convince them to sell since they are already short-handed.
The Giallorossi could add a defender regardless of what happens with the former Manchester United staple. Eric Dier, Radu Dragusin, and Oumar Solet are at the top of their shortlist.
Our Take on Roma and Smalling
His return on the pitch will quash any chatter, especially if he fares as he has always done, and they are undermanned to begin with. Plus, it’s hard to imagine the bids would be enticing enough. Since they probably won’t be able to purchase a talent due to their low budget, Dier combines what they need with what type of signing they can afford the best.
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