Hernandez 'Living The Dream'

Javier Hernandez says he is living out his boyhood dream at United.

Normally that’s that sort of remark you’d get from a local boy made good, but this exciting 22-year-old from Guadalajara in Mexico certainly isn’t playing down his enthusiasm to have made the move to Old Trafford.

Hernandez, who was unveiled to the media on Tuesday, is as eager and quick-talking at press conferences as he is keen and rapid on the pitch.

“It is like a dream,” he said, a broad grin spread across his face. “I am living the dream that I had when I was 10 years old when I loved this team and these players like Giggs and Scholes. All the players at United were heroes to me, from Cantona to Ronaldo. I liked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a lot as well. They are all good players. I wanted to be like them.

"I am here now and I want to enjoy it and take this opportunity and to grow up as a human and as a player. Most importantly, I want to win things.”

He sat on the press conference top table, sleeves rolled up ready for business, holding court with confidence at his Old Trafford unveiling – although officially that had happened the night before against Newcastle when, as a second-half substitute, he was given a rapturous welcome at his new home.

“It was wonderful on Monday night to play at Old Trafford for United in this league. It was unbelievable,” he added. “When I was young I always liked this league. I always wanted to play here. I’m very happy I have this opportunity.

"I also want to open doors to players in Mexico to allow the important teams over here might look at other players from my country. To all the fans in my country and over here I want to say thank you for all the support. I can promise I will work hard and do my best.”

Chicharito’s signing is a credit to United’s scouting network, particularly signing him before an impressive World Cup raised his profile just as much as his move to Manchester.

“The World Cup was important to me,” says Hernandez. “All my experience I have had in my short career has been important. The World Cup was great for my family because my father and grand father played also in a World Cup. It was a dream for all the family.”

But now his mind is focused on United and earning his place in the team. And Chicharito will throw himself into the task with seemingly typical gusto.

“In football you know you have competition for places,” he says. “You have it when you are in the reserves and when you are young - you can only play 11 players. In my head, I just want to learn and grow up and do my best for the team.”