While bigger stars such as Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial may take the headlines, Ander Herrera is usually the unsung hero for Manchester United, with the midfielder reportedly close to signing a new three-year deal and take the captain role.
Ander Herrera arrived in Manchester hoping to emulate his form as a creative number 10 at Athletic Bilbao, only to realise that he would have to adapt his game if he wanted to be a regular starter for the club.
It took Herrera a few seasons to find his feet, however, 2016/2017 proved to be the turning point in his Red Devils career. A season which included silverware in the League Cup and Europa League was topped off with the prestigious Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award; a title held by David De Gea for the previous three years.
Since Mourinho’s departure however, under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the Spaniard has found himself back in the spotlight.
The 29-year-old midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season but has emerged as a key part of Solskjaer’s team since the interim boss took charge in mid-December.
It is the Spanish international’s most recent display in the FA Cup win over Chelsea that has led to people finally taking notice of his importance to Solskjaer’s side.
Indeed, Herrera was all over the pitch against Chelsea, tidying things up at the back by making well-timed challenges, clearances and interceptions while also creating chances at the other end.
Fans have been calling on Herrera to be made captain for quite some time now, and after that performance, I don’t think the club can ignore their calls for much longer.
He was set to leave Old Trafford upon the expiry of his deal but now looks set to remain after a positive breakthrough in talks.
According to The Sun, Herrera is set to put pen to paper on a new three-year contract on fresh terms worth £100,000-a-week.