Chris Smalling expects to return to Manchester United once his season-long loan deal with Roma expires, claims Sky Sports.
The former England international completed a surprise move to Roma at the end of the summer transfer window after dropping down the pecking order at United.
Harry Maguire's world record arrival at Old Trafford forced Smalling to look elsewhere and the 29-year-old has made an encouraging start to life in Serie A.
Reports even emerged suggesting Roma are already keen to sign Smalling on a permanent deal but those are understood to be wide of the mark.
While Roma are pleased with Smalling's progress, the English centre-back is expected to return to Old Trafford at the end of the season.
It remains to be seen whether Smalling could yet force his way back into the reckoning at United or whether he will offloaded again in the summer.
Smalling has started five league matches for Roma this season and is currently the highest WhoScored rated centre-back in Serie A (7.21).
