Manchester United defender Chris Smalling is confident that the team will go on a positive run once they have a settled team.

The Red Devils have struggled to find their best XI under manager Louis van Gaal this season due to a number of injuries, particularly in defence.

On Saturday, United lined up with 20-year-old Tyler Blackett and teenager Paddy McNair, while Daley Blind and Radamel Falcao were missing through injury.

Despite having a number of players absent, United were able to secure a 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates.

"Each team thrives on a settled side," Smalling told the club's official website. "I think if you look at the teams towards the top of the table that's something they have benefitted from, maybe making just one or two changes each week - we don't have that luxury at the moment.

"But we'll stick together, all the players are in it as a group, and when we do get a settled side I think you'll start to see the consistency we're all striving for."

Van Gaal's side are fourth in the Premier League table, 13 points behind leaders Chelsea.