28. Alexander Büttner Birthdate: 11 Feb 1989 Birthplace: Doetinchem Position: Defender Appearances 22 Goals Scored 2 Joined United: 21 Aug 2012 United Debut: 15 Sep 2012 v Wigan (H) International: A rough diamond with bags of potential, Alexander Büttner almost certainly has eyes on Patrice Evras left-back berth at Old Trafford. Since joining in August 2012, the 24-year-old defender has made a sprightly start to life in M16, enjoying a handful of memorable outings for the first team whilst honing his craft with the Reserves. Notably, Alex initially learned his trade with Ajaxs fabled youth system and the Netherlands Under-21 international soon moved to Vitesse Arnhem, almost immediately graduating to their first team as a raw 17-year-old. Although originally a winger, he eventually combined defensive nous with natural attacking ability to become an accomplished full-back - despite some early resistance against the move. Büttner, who cites his father as an influence, earned a place in Bert van Marwijks preliminary squad for Euro 2012 but ultimately missed out by a nose; a blow that was soon forgotten when United came calling in August 2012. Taking advantage of Southamptons failed attempt to buy the much-sought after youngster, Sir Alex Ferguson pounced and finalised a deal in the same week that Robin van Persie signed on the dotted line. After passing a medical and signing a five-year contract in M16, Büttner was announced as the clubs fourth major signing of the summer with the then-manager describing his new arrival as one of the best young left-backs in Europe. Still on cloud nine, he made a dream start by scoring on his first team debut at Old Trafford, dribbling past three defenders to score an unlikely solo goal during a 4-0 hammering of Wigan Athletic. In total, Büttner made 13 appearances and scored two goals during the title-winning 2012/13 campaign to cap a highly promising start to life at the Theatre of Dreams. And he hopes there is more to come: Every game that I play is a bonus. I am still young and I have signed for five years so I have time to come into the first team. I have played a few games now, including three Champions League games, which has been very good for me but Patrice is the one who plays in the position now. Hes a great player and I can learn many things from him.
Posted on: Wed, 19 Mar 2014 17:45:23 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015