Chris Smalling’s condition is being evaluated day-by-day since the English centre-back walked off the pitch against Spezia with discomfort in his right thigh.
According to Il Tempo, there is mild optimism regarding his availability for the crucial showdown vs Atalanta. However, the club want to make sure the Englishman is 100% fit and do not want to risk him unnecessarily.
The newspaper reports that the next two training sessions will determine the centre-back’s availability. The final decision will be up to Smalling himself. Mourinho does not want to force or rush his recovery.
If confirmed, Smalling would slot in at the back alongside Gianluca Mancini and Roger Ibanez.
