Chris Smalling has made the brave move of joining the Twitter-sphere, just days before his side meets rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford. The 25-year-old is very much a key part of Manchester United's defence under Louis van Gaal and is quickly establishing himself as one of the best defenders in the country. Smalling, appeared to be enjoying a barbecue with some friends and his girlfriend Sam Cooke, as he posted his first photo captioned, 'BBQ Time #biggreenegg.' Chris Smalling posted this photo of himself and girlfriend Sam Cooke on his newly opened Twitter . In a game, neither side can afford to lose, United would be able to extend their lead to four points as they continue to chase down Arsenal for the second automatic Champions League qualification place. As United continue to find their good form, Manuel Pellegrini's side are struggling and Monday's defeat to Crystal Palace was damning for morale, as they look to stop their slide down the table. Smalling, who missed the win over Aston Villa, could return for United as they look to cement their place in the Champions League. The 25-year-old is establishing himself as one of the best centre backs in England and continues to impress . His United team-mate Adnan Januzaj has also joined the social networking site and said: 'Hi Twitter! This is my official account looking forward to sharing with you all #MUFC #FirstTweet.' The winger has found game time under Louis van Gaal hard to come by and could choose to leave the club in the summer in search of first-team football. Januzaj burst onto the scene last season under David Moyes but struggles to fit into the Dutchman's style of play and has found himself on the fringes. Adnan Januzaj joined Twitter on Friday and just days before their crucial clash with Manchester City . The Belgian international has found his game time limited this season under new boss Louis van Gaal .
Chris Smalling joins Twitter just days before the Manchester derby .
The 25-year-old posted a photo of himself and his girlfriend Sam Cooke .
Smalling could return for the clash after missing the win over Aston Villa .
READ: Manchester United players train ahead of Sunday's big derby .
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