The 3 most improved Manchester United players of 2016

Ander Herrera

Arguably United’s player of the season so far, Ander Herrera has become Mourinho’s first choice central midfielder in the last few months.

However, he only started one of United’s first five Premier League matches, but has since then been an ever-present except when suspended against Swansea, and there’s good reason.

The Spanish international has struck an excellent partnership with Michael Carrick in the United midfield, with Herrera doing more of the so-called ‘dirty’ work, like making interceptions and covering more ground, while Carrick is able to control things with his composure and vision.

In fact, Herrera has made more interceptions this season than Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante, which is a sensational effort from someone who is often overlooked and undervalued by many football fans.

Even under van Gaal last season, we saw that Herrera had quality in that role, and now he is flourishing under Mourinho.