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Former Maidstone United defender Chris Smalling makes debut for England

By: KentOnline reporter multimediadesk@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 16:11, 03 September 2011

Fulham and England Under-21 defender Chris Smalling
Fulham and England Under-21 defender Chris Smalling

Former Maidstone United defender Chris Smalling described making his international debut as 'a dream.'

After a strong start to the season with Manchester United, Smalling was named in manager Fabio Capello's starting line-up for England's 3-0 victory Euro 2012 Qualifying win over Bulgaria in Sofia on Friday night - though in the unfamiliar role of right-back.

The 21-year-old former Chatham Grammar School for Boys pupil (pictured) came through the ranks at the Stones before being snapped-up by Fulham and making the move to Old Trafford two seasons later for around £10m.

His England debut - which followed 14 appearances in the under-21 side - came just three years and five months after his final appearance in Stones colours - a 4-2 win at East Thurrock United in which he scored.

What do you think of Smalling's rise to international football? Have your say below.

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