Smalling backs speedy Mata to liven up Chelsea's 'slow' attack

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling had the shirt off Juan Mata's back the last time they played - but he still thinks the £27million Spaniard has turned 'slow' Chelsea into title challengers.

Smalling swapped shirts with Mata after England drew 1-1 with Spain in the European Under 21 Championship in June and believes he can improve a Chelsea side condemned as 'slow' by their own striker Fernando Torres.

High praise: Smalling has backed Mata to inject pace into the Chelsea attack

Smalling said: 'People are calling it a two-horse title race but Chelsea will be up there challenging. I know from playing against Mata that he's a great player.

'I think he will do well in the Premier League. He tends to roam and is difficult to mark. 'He has certainly made Chelsea more dynamic with his pace.

'He will definitely speed up the pace of their game.'

Mata of fact: The Spaniard has made an instant impact at Stamford Bridge