Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal, it's fair to say, has a little bit of trouble trying to remember Chris Smalling's name.
The Dutchman famously referred to Smalling as "Mike" during a news conference last July on United's tour of America. And it's a name that has stuck throughout the season, with fans getting in on the act and even Van Gaal slipping up once more.
Mike #Smalling is back ����☺️�� #mufc #manutd #LVG #ChampionsLeague #MUFCvCSKA @Pa_Ward1 @TotallyMUFC @ChrisSmalling pic.twitter.com/ca4jZeb3p5
- Tim McCarthy (@timjmccarthy) November 3, 2015
Van Gaal dropped another clanger on Friday when he twice referred to Will Keane by his twin brother's name, Michael. And Smalling will not expect to be referred to as "Chris" any time soon, as his boss has a new name for him.
Smalling pulled off a trick in training in preparation for the FA Cup third round tie against Sheffield United and Van Gaal said: "Michael is an easy name for me!
"I said to 'Mike' Smalling that I call him Pele because he had a fantastic move (in training).
"It is easier to call him Pele now.''