Roma defender Chris Smalling was interviewed by BBC Sport and discussed his aim at making the 2020 Euro squad for England and also addressed what his future could hold beyond this season.
Smalling joined Roma on a dry loan until June from Manchester United, however, it’s been heavily rumoured that he’d prefer to remain in the Eternal City beyond then.
“The national team? Obviously it’s been a couple of years now, but that ambition is always there with England. I know that Gareth and the coaching staff have been to a few of my games over here and I guess you know you are in their thoughts if you are playing at a top club,” said Smalling.
“I hold those aspirations, and I just try to focus on here and what comes, comes. But I would very much like to be part of (the Euros), for sure.”
“I feel like I’m picking up a lot on Italian style, and tactics and how to manage games. I’m definitely adding to my game,” he added. “I feel like I’m learning and improving.”
The Englishman then addressed his future and if he’d like to remain in Rome, ”Yeah, I think the plan at the start of the season was to contribute as much as I can and then hopefully if we’ve all had a good season and hit our ambitions then those discussions can take place”.
“I’ve been more than happy with my first half of the season, it’s now just making sure that we kick on and finish the season strongly because we have a lot to play for”.
“Coming over here and trying to hit ground running with football was the priority. But my family settling in and me learning the language and enjoying the culture, it’s something you need to make the most of. My family and I definitely are.”
