Don’t write off Hernandez

Monday, 30/01/2012

by Amit Mistry, Shoot's Manchester United blogger

After enjoying a successful debut season with United and scoring 20 goals in the process, Javier Hernandez has been experiencing a quieter second season.

Partly this has been a result of the burgeoning Danny Welbeck, who has been in great form and Ferguson seems to be determined to unveil him as the next big English star.

Injury has been another factor, which has plagued the Mexican since pre-season and not allowed him a good run of games to build up his form.

Some have even labelled Hernandez to be suffering from second season syndrome, which does hits many players and even whole teams.

It was inevitable that he would endure a more difficult season now that teams are aware of his threats and can be better prepared to nullify him. But it would be completely unfair to write off the young Mexican.

He still remains a fans' favourite for his professionalism and dedication to the team. His speed and technique are his strengths, which will shine through and enable him to emerge from the shadows.

Critics must also take into account that he has not undertaken an extended summer break since joining United as he did participate in the 2010 World Cup just after signing, as well as starring in the CONCACAF Gold Cup last summer.

All these international tournaments plus club games must have impacted him physically and mentally. If United did not have a long injury list, then Ferguson would have sent Hernandez on a short break in order to recuperate.

It would be extreme to say that Hernandez would be shipped out in the summer, even if his goal tally remains unimpressive. He still has a place at United, as four good strikers are required in the squad.

Rooney and Welbeck are the preferred striking partnership at the moment. Chicharito is now the third striker, but a useful one as he has shown in the past to be an impact player by coming on as a super-sub.

As for the fourth striker, it is much more difficult to identify who occupies this spot permanently. Dimitar Berbatov is still used sparingly and speculation continues as to whether he will leave on a free transfer this summer.

Michael Owen continues to spend more time with the physio than the first team, and could also be released in the summer.

Federico Macheda is still learning, and could benefit from going out on loan to QPR to develop his confidence and gain more game time, like Welbeck did at Sunderland.

And recently, we have seen the departure of Mame Biram Diouf, who has failed to create an impact at Old Trafford and has been deemed as another Fergie flop signing.

The Little Pea still has a big future at United. Most players endure a dip in form and confidence, as seen with Wayne Rooney last season.

But Ferguson is the best man to ensure that Hernandez returns to the exhilarating form that earned him a five-year contract.

United are still in the race for the title and the Europa League, and Hernandez can still play a vital role in creating some success this season.

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