Love is in the air at Manchester United despite the English champions’ inconsistent form in 2013/14 that has plagued their title defence in David Moyes’ first season in charge.
You only have to look as far as goalkeeper David De Gea and Speedy Gonzales forward Javier Hernandez – officially the fastest player at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa – to see the players are all united in their attempts to kickstart their spluttering season.
De Gea moved to United in 2011 from Atletico Madrid and has played alongside many top names in his career but rates Mexican Hernandez, whose nickname Chicharito is Spanish for ‘little pea’, as top drawer.
“He is one of the most professional players I have known over the course of my career. He is truly a great player and a good friend,” the 23-year-old Spaniard told the club’s website.
“We help each other – he tries to make it difficult for me and I try to make it difficult for him. We always do our best and he’s a player who gives his all in training.”
Hernandez joined United a season earlier than his good mate and has since scored 55 times in 136 appearances, earning a reputation as a super-sub and goal poacher extraordinaire.
De Gea said United’s players were doing their utmost to right the wrongs of the season so far, especially following their dismal start to the year after they were knocked out of the FA Cup and this week lost three consecutive games for the first time since 2001.
Extra practice after training is the least the players can do, says De Gea.
“We frequently stay after the training sessions to practice crossing and finishing, and do finishing drills,” he said.
“We do it especially when there are no matches in the following days and I think the extra training helps me and the other players to improve.”
United currently lie 11 points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal and next face FA Cup conquerors Swansea on Saturday in the top flight.
Image courtesy of Bwin via YouTube, with thanks.
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