Smalling joined United from Fulham in the summer and the defender has featured in six matches for the Red Devils.
Ferguson has decided to rest Rio Ferdinand for the clash with Bursaspor and the defender will be replaced by Smalling.
“Rio has come on very well in the last few weeks but the form of Chris Smalling makes it very easy for me in that respect,” said Ferguson.
“Some players come to Old Trafford and take time but fortunately for the lad he has taken to it very quickly.
“He has adapted. He is receptive to training. He is intelligent. He has the physical part, is tall and quick and a good passer of the ball.
“The stage we are at with him is to give him as much experience as we can.”
