Man Utd star could be handed England debut against Bulgaria

Smalling is expected to win the battle with Micah Richards and Phil Jagielka in the battle for the right-back role in Capello’s team.

Smalling has impressed as a right-back for Manchester United this season.

“He surprised me when he played at Wembley in the Community Shield against Manchester City,” said Capello.

“He played well. In fact, the four games that he’s played at right-back, he’s played really well.

“I always saw him play in central defence before. He is playing with confidence. He has improved and improved.”