Chris Smalling has thanked Fulham for the role they played in his meteoric rise from non-league football to Manchester United's first team.
Smalling returns to his old club on Wednesday night as the Red Devils travel to Craven Cottage in search of three points in the race for the title.
Although the England international only made 14 appearances for the West London club, the 22-year-old said that he recognises the part they played in plucking him from non-league obscurity.
"Without [former Fulham boss] Roy Hodgson giving me my chance there I wouldn't be here," said Smalling.
"I had a big two years there and it is a time I look back upon fondly. My first year was about finding my feet. The second was about showcasing what I can do.
"It'll be nice to go back and see a few of the players and play back at the Cottage."
Smalling joined United from Fulham in 2010.
