Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling has conceded that Sunday's 4-1 defeat to rivals Manchester City was one of the "biggest disappointments" that he has experienced since he joined the club in 2010.

The 23-year-old started the derby at right-back and received some criticism for his part in a couple of City's goals.

However, the England international has urged his teammates to return to winning ways as soon as possible, starting with tonight's League Cup tie against Liverpool at Old Trafford.

"I think it's good there's a big game coming up against Liverpool so we can try to hit back. We normally reply with a good result," he told the club's official website.

"Sunday's match was a big disappointment, probably one of the biggest disappointments I have felt and I think that a lot of the players were hurt by that performance."

Smalling has made two appearances for the Red Devils so far this season.

Written by
Liam Apicella