Chris Smalling declares himself fit

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has declared himself fully fit and ready to win the Premier League title.

Smalling has spent the last three weeks trying to overcome a head injury that he sustained in a clash of heads with Klaas Jan Huntelaar in England's friendly with Holland last month.

The former Fulham player made a comeback against Athletic Bilbao wearing a protective cap, though he had to leave the field again after splitting his stitches. The 22-year-old insists that he has now fully recovered and came through a midweek reserve-team outing against Aston Villa without any complications.

"I feel good. It was the first time I'd not played with any protection and I came through it well," said the England international.

"The manager wants everyone out on that field to make sure he has a good squad to choose from.

"That can only be beneficial in the weeks ahead. Having everyone fighting for a place and raring to go will help us."

Smalling officially signed for Manchester United in January 2010.