Mourinho, Ferguson & search for new club - what next for Smalling?

It is clear from the first answer of a fascinating 45-minute chat that Chris Smalling is no ordinary footballer.

A career that took the 36-year-old from non-league Maidstone to a Champions League final in the space of three years, has, so far, led to 580 club appearances in three countries, playing the majority for Sir Alex Ferguson or Jose Mourinho, plus 31 England caps and trophies with Manchester United and Roma.

It has now brought Smalling and his family back to the north west of England to figure out his next steps.

Smalling has plans for his career after playing but presently, he is focused on finding a new club.

"I know my body now better than when I was 26 and that's shown in the games I'm playing," he said.

"When I was younger, I remember Sir Alex was implementing certain things, like Ryan Giggs doing yoga.

"When you get beyond 30, each year is precious in terms of enjoying playing and being passionate about football.

"Actual training is a very short time. The longevity and recovery starts very early in terms of what I'm eating and doing between sessions, even down to my supplements now.