Smalling: We showed character to see the game out

The England international was one of the standout performers as the Giallorossi secured a 1-0 victory over Lecce on Sunday - with Edin Dzeko getting the only goal at Stadio Via del Mare.

"The second half was how we want to play," Smalling said.

"We were a lot higher up the pitch, we were on the front foot, and we were creating chances. If we play more like that seceond half in future we'll make life easier [for ourselves]."

The Giallorossi had the chance to kill the game off with 10 minutes remaining, only for Aleksandar Kolarov to see his penalty saved.

"We deserved a second or third goal," Smalling said. "But the penalty miss boosted the home team. We knew it would be a tough last 10 minutes, but we showed good character to dig in there and get the win."

He added: "Defensively, we are starting to find some rhythm. The more games we play together the more we find an understanding.

"The more clean sheets we can keep, then we have a lot of players in this team that can win games for us."