City looked to exploit the inexperienced Smalling as he replaced
crocked Ferdinand in United's 2-1 win on Saturday.
But the defender, who joined the Red Devils for £10million from
Fulham last July, turned in a huge display to deny Tevez.
Smalling, 21, said: "I was talking to Rio on Friday and he was
giving me little pointers.
"He has played with and against Tevez and seen him in
training.
"He was making the point Carlos likes to feel the defenders at
his back.
"So you let him have his touch before you move in and go for
him.
"To have that knowledge to tap into is incredible.
"It is great to have that pre-match advice but you also cannot
beat first-hand experience."