Manchester United boss Ferguson hails Hernandez

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson hailed the contribution of Javier Hernandez after the Mexican striker scored the only goal in the Champions League victory over Valencia last night.

Hernandez was introduced as a substitute for Anderson in the second half and quickly made his presence felt, latching onto a pass from fellow substitute Federico Macheda and lashing home with his left foot from the edge of the box in the 85th minute.

Hernandez’s goal was the decisive contribution in a game United were lucky to win, having played second fiddle to their Spanish opponents for the majority of the Group C encounter.

United boss Ferguson heaped praise on the 22-year old, known as Chicharito, or Little Pea, after the game, saying that scoring goals is like ‘shelling peas’ to the Mexican international.

"The way he took his chance, it was like shelling peas. It was so natural to him," said Ferguson.

The United manager admitted that the sparkling form of Dimitar Berbatov since the start of the season has restricted Hernandez’s appearances, but that he is happy with how he has been developing since arriving from Mexican side Chivas in the summer for £7 million.

"The form of Berbatov has delayed his appearances," said Ferguson.

"Of course, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar were the natural choices at the start of the season, which has meant Javier has not had a lot of football.

"But he is young and he is developing his game and doing good work in the gymnasium.

"He still has work to do in that aspect of his physique but you cannot take away from the fact that he is a fantastic finisher.

Hernandez himself was delighted to get on the scoresheet and added that the goal will be a big boost to his confidence as he embarks on his career at Old Trafford.

"It was a great night," said Hernandez. "I am so happy about the goal but also it was important to get the win and the three points.

"I always used to watch the Champions League when I was back home in Mexico.

"It is one of the most important tournaments in the world, so I was always keeping up with it.

"The goal will give me so much confidence. I am only at the start of my career with United and to score so early in the Champions League is a big boost.

"It is great to be a Manchester United player and I want that to continue for a long time."