Pass-notes: Ander Herrera Ander Herrera has quietly impressed at Manchester United since joining from Athletic Club, and returned from the Reds US tour as a standout performer. With fellow countrymen Juan Mata and David De Gea alongside him, Herrera has been quick to settle in the Reds ranks. So as the new season draws ever closer, United Uncovered decided to run the rule over his promising start to life at United... So, how has he settled? Very well it seems. Ander played his first game in a United shirt last month and showed no signs of nerves, claiming three assists as the Reds hammered LA Galaxy 7-0 in Louis van Gaals first game in charge. That was enough to earn him the Man of the Match award and endeared him to fans immediately. What qualities does he bring to the team? His addition to Uniteds midfield adds another dimension compared to the players we already have. Hes schooled in La Liga so obviously he has radar awareness, vision to pick killer through-balls and hes generally slick in possession. Hes got guile going forward and dictates the tempo in the heart of midfield. And, not unlike Paul Scholes, hes a creative type who doesnt shy away from a tackle. He displayed great tenacity in the build-up to Wayne Rooneys equaliser against Liverpool. We liked that. So, was that his best moment on tour? Not quite. Without doubt it was that pass for Ashley Young. While fans back home in England could be forgiven for missing the Reds opening pre-season fixture, a 4am kick-off, those who followed the action were left looking on in awe at a moment of magic from Uniteds new star. Picking up the ball in midfield, Herrera turned sharply before producing a perfectly weighted pass, allowing Young to round the Galaxy goalkeeper and seal the win. Worth waiting up for... Ok, but what do his team-mates say about him? Well, hes already making an impression there, too. We have a good connection on and off the pitch and I think he will give us a lot of good things this season, says Juan Mata. Darren Fletcher echoed Matas comments, saying: Anders enthusiasm is infectious – its rubbed off on a few of us already. I think hes going to be a key player for Manchester United. Praise indeed. So, what does he say about being a Red? It was clear he wanted to be a United player and when he signed his four-year deal back in June he told us: Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic Club in the Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career so far. I have joined United to do all I can to help the team reach the clubs objectives. I cant wait for my first game in Uniteds famous red shirt. Hes done that now, but hes still to make his competitive debut. Is that next in his sights? Absolutely. Impressing in pre-season, albeit against top European opposition, is just the beginning. With Michael Carrick out injured he has a chance to really stake a claim in midfield. But Fletcher, Tom Cleverley, Marouane Fellaini and Carrick - when he returns - will all covet one of those central midfield roles. So Louis van Gaal may have a few selection headaches. For now, all we can be certain of is Ander Herrera has given fans cause for excitement. -360
Posted on: Sun, 10 Aug 2014 08:36:18 +0000
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