Manchester United: Chris Smalling says nothing is out of reach for Reds

Chris Smalling believes the sky is the limit for Premier League table-toppers Manchester United.

The Reds hit the top of the table after the win against Sunderland last Saturday for the first time in manager Louis van Gaal’s 15 month Old Trafford reign.

Twelve months ago his new charges were off the pace in the title race.

After seven matches this time around United have amassed 16 points. They only had 11 at the same point last year and were eight points behind early leaders and eventual champions Chelsea. United would soon drop further away in that disappointing start.

But now 25-year-old defender Smalling says consistency is the key for the Reds.

“We have improved. Last season’s start was disastrous and it didn’t give us a foothold to be able to challenge for anything,” he says.

In pictures: United v Sunderland

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“We know that we have improved in this section of the season, and we now have to improve in each other section compared to last season and aim a lot higher.

“Our aim is to be competitive in all of the competitions and to make sure that we finish higher in the Premier League than we did last season.

"If we keep this consistent run from the start, and can maintain that all the way through, then LERYI don’t think anything is out of reach.

“If you show that consistency then you will always be there or thereabouts. If you’re near the top by Christmas, you then want a strong finish and a bit of luck on your side as well.”

A quarter of United’s 12 Premier League goals that have seen them quietly claw their way to the top have been scored by new £36m teenager Anthony Martial.

Since a super sub debut goal against Liverpool the 19-year-old from Monaco has proved it wasn’t a one-off and has added to his Old Trafford account with further league goals against Southampton at St Mary’s and in the Capital One Cup against Ipswich Town.

“If you could ask for a moment to announce yourself on the world stage, it would be in a massive game like Liverpool at home,” added Smalling.

“It was a great moment and a lot of people took notice of how well he dribbled at players, how direct he was and how he took his goal.

“That’s something we’ve needed this season. He continued his good form by scoring twice at Southampton and again against Ipswich, so he’s enjoyed a great start to his United career.

“In that snippet against Liverpool, you get a real idea of how he is. He is one who is very direct, he is willing to take on players and he is willing to take on that risk.

“He looks a very sharp player.”