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Man Utd news: Chris Smalling revival down to one thing - hilarious claim
MANCHESTER UNITED defender Chris Smalling is finding his best form again because of his new haircut.
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That’s the outlandish view of BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks who saw Smalling, sporting a new cut, net in United’s victory over Watford.
It was United’s second win in a row after seeing off Burnley ahead of the recent international break.
Smalling didn’t start the season for Jose Mourinho but made his way into the side following a 3-2 defeat at Brighton.
His first start of the season saw Manchester United beaten 3-0 at home by Tottenham but the Red Devils have bounced back since that loss.
And Crooks believes Smalling’s new cut could be a key factor in his confidence.
“We've all been looking for cracks in Jose Mourinho and his players since his outbursts and the defeat against Tottenham,” Crooks wrote as he chose Smalling in his BBC Team of the Week.
“To my surprise I have seen nothing but total commitment.
“Credit where credit's due, United's players have come out fighting and look meaner than ever.
“Chris Smalling, with his new 'natty dread' hair style, was outstanding against Watford.
“The new look oozes swagger and if his goal was anything to go by, the defender's hairstyle may have something to do with it. Amazing what a new look can do.”
While Crooks seems to be impressed by Smalling’s haircut, manager Jose Mourinho isn’t so keen.
“The only thing I don't like in Chris in this moment is the haircut but I am nobody to tell him that,” Mourinho said.
“He's playing really well.
“Victor [Lindelof] and Marouane [Fellaini] were important, matches in two against two, because Burnley and Watford, two strikers, and two powerful strikers, can hold the ball, in the air, they are physical, they are clever, these three guys were important for us again."
Smalling will look to continue his fine form when United begin their Champions League campaign against Young Boys on Wednesday (8pm).