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Smalling, 30, has not played for the Three Lions since 2017 - but could be in line for a recall ahead of this summer's European Championships, after impressing Southgate with his displays since joining the Giallorossi.
“I’ve never ruled anybody out,” Southgate said. “I think that would be wrong.
“He’s done well in Italy. He’s playing at another big club. He was playing at a big club before.
"We’re watching everybody because we’ve got to make sure we make the right decision.”
Smalling has made no secret of his desire to force his way back into the reckoning with the Three Lions, despite perceived criticism from Southgate about his ability to play out from defence.
Under Roma boss Paulo Fonseca, Smalling has regularly been asked to carry the ball forward and pass it around the pitch for the Giallorossi this season.
"Obviously it's been a couple of years now, but that ambition is always there with England," Smalling told the BBC last month.
"I know that Gareth and the coaching staff have been to a few of my games over here and I guess you know you are in their thoughts if you are playing at a top club.
"I hold those aspirations, and I just try to focus on here and what comes, comes. But I would very much like to be part of [the Euros], for sure."
Southgate now seems to be reconsidering some of his earlier judgements about the on-loan Manchester United centre-back.
"I think I said I probably regretted the way the message of... by praising others for certain attributes, there was criticism for Chris," Southgate added.
"It was my fault and it was unfair on him."
England have two friendlies organised for the upcoming international break, against Italy (March 27) and Denmark (March 31).
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