Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez can prove his doubters wrong after a disappointing season.
United manager tipping 'Little Pea' for big season
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez can prove his doubters wrong after a disappointing season.
Hernandez, known as Chicharito, did manage to score 12 goals in an injury-hit 2011-12 but this represented a downturn in form following his dramatic debut season at Old Trafford.
The Mexico international fired 20 goals in his first season at the club despite being expected to play a bit-part role in that campaign.
The United boss believes the 24-year-old will feel the benefit of a rare period of extended rest and can have a significant impact as the Red Devils seek to win back their Premier League crown.
"I think this season we'll see a better Chicharito," Ferguson told
Inside United.
Rest
"For the last four or five years he's played all through the summer. This year, with the co-operation of Mexico, he's had a proper rest.
"And that started right back in May when I decided not to take him to Belfast for the Harry Gregg testimonial.
"We wanted to give him as much rest as possible. He had a couple of weeks off and then joined the Mexico side for a couple of qualifying games before getting another few weeks' rest.
"That was important for him and I'm sure he'll reap the benefits. We've already seen the fruits of that in the early training sessions and I think he'll have a top season.
"He's such a good professional and such a fantastic personality."
