Former Man Utd and England defender Chris Smalling, who started his career at Maidstone United and also played for Fulham, leaves Roma for Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha

Former Maidstone United defender Chris Smalling has left Italian giants Roma for a new challenge.

Smalling, 34, has signed for Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha, ending his five-year stay at the Olympic Stadium.

The centre-half started his career at Maidstone before joining Fulham in 2008 and then Manchester United, where he won two Premier League titles under Alex Ferguson.

He initially went on loan to Roma before making the move permanent and was named man-of-the-match as Jose Mourinho’s side beat Feyenoord 1-0 in the Conference League final two years ago.

Smalling, who won 31 caps for England, posted a goodbye message on social media after signing a two-year deal to play in the Middle East.

Praising Roma fans, he said: “It has been an absolute privilege to experience that passion and support week-in, week-out for the last five seasons.

“On arriving in Rome in 2019, my family and I were greeted with kindness and warmth.

“You immediately made Rome feel like home.

“With the birth of my son, the city will forever hold a special place in my heart.

“All great chapters come to an end, it is now time for me to say goodbye. My love and admiration for AS Roma will live on forever.”