Manchester United: Why Chicharito Proved He Still Has a Future at United in Win
September 4, 2012
Much has been said of Paul Scholes' impact in Manchester United's dramatic come-from-behind win at Southampton on Sunday, but less praise has been lavished on Sir Alex Ferguson's other impact substitute, Javier Hernandez.
But for those watching the 3-2 win, Chicharito's fantastic cameo must not go ignored.
He added a purposeful spark that Danny Welbeck just wasn't able to provide, causing the Saints' back-line problems with his direct runs and lightening-quick pace.
In just 20 minutes, his control, passing and ball skills looked far improved from his disappointing preseason.
The impressive display was acknowledged by Sir Alex after the game, the United boss revealing his delight to reporters.
"Chicharito also came on and made a difference," he said after the match. "He started stretching them with fantastic runs off the ball and I was delighted with his performance" (via Yahoo).
Many speculated that Hernandez would be the player to suffer most from the arrival of Robin van Persie, and would see his place at Old Trafford marginalised as a result.
Fellow Premier League club Chelsea seemed to think so, making an approach over a possible transfer for Hernandez only days after the Dutchman made the move to Manchester (via ESPN).
Before the game at St. Mary's Stadium, Sir Alex himself confessed a possible lack of versatility may hold the Mexican striker back this season with so many attacking options in the squad.
Earlier in the week, the Scot told Sporting Life, "Chicharito is the only one who is a one-position player and that's through the middle" (h/t Goal.com).
But Hernandez' attitude has remained resolutely positive this summer.
"One year at least, I want to win the league, I want to win the Champions League—we were so close in my first year—and I want to win the FA Cup," he told reporters last month (via The Mirror).
"If I have a season where I play a lot but didn’t score one goal, but I can lift those trophies, I will be the happiest man in the world."
On Sunday, Javier Hernandez may not have scored, but he certainly helped keep his team on track for domestic glory.
And if he continues to give similar performances this season, his first-team opportunities are sure to continue.