Smalling believes the England captain is the perfect role model for him.
“The stature of the guy is something to look up to and he has been a real joy to be alongside,” Smalling said of Ferdinand.
“Rio has built up that presence over the years. He is just very commanding. On the ball, he just gives you that composure.
“Whether he puts on that captain’s armband or it is just in training, he is leading the team.
“I have had to pick up along the same way, because I am the eyes of the central midfielders and that is something I have been working on, and he has been helping me.
“Rio is great to play with, so is [Nemanja] Vidic, so I cannot be in a better atmosphere to be learning my trade.”
