Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has shrugged off any comparisons supporters have drawn between himself and United great Paul Scholes.
The Spaniard has exceeded the exceptions of fans after his summer move to Old Trafford. Herrera’s slick and composed style has many questioning if he is the one to replace Scholes’ void after he retired for a second time following the 2012-13 season.
After participating in the Manchester United Foundation’s Dream Days for charity work at United's training facility, the 25-year-old Herrera took to Facebook to answer some questions from supporters.
Some compared him to Scholes, only for Herrera to reply saying: “There will never be another Scholes. He was a one off.”
The former Athletic Bilbao player was also asked why he wears both his first name and last name on the back of his shirt. He explained it is purely superstitious. “I did it before in Bilbao, and I am superstitious. I started using 'Ander Herrera' at Athletic a few years ago and I had a very good time there so I wanted to keep putting it on my shirt. I think Marcos Rojo is the same.
“Actually, in Spain, everyone has at least three names including the last name of both their dad and their mum.
“I always play passionately – for the team and our supporters. I am emotional. Every win and every victory makes me happy but maybe I hope the most emotional moments are coming. I am sure of that, in fact, because I am at United.”
Despite having got his first campaign in Manchester off to a slow start with a period of games spent on the bench, Herrera has put in several strong performances for Louis van Gaal’s side and has produced seven goals in his 26 appearances. His favourite strike he says came against Yeovil Town in United’s 2-0 FA Cup win over the League One side.
However, “the best one is still to come,” he says.