Chicharito Happy On Learning Curve

Javier Hernandez is determined to keep on improving at United and recognises he will have to work hard in order to stay one step ahead of the opposition.

‘Chicharito’ enjoyed a fine debut campaign with the Reds in 2010/11, scoring 20 goals in 45 games after signing from Chivas de Guadalajara in his native Mexico. However, injuries have blighted his second season, and he has managed just six goals so far.

“There are different circumstances because I have had more injuries this season than last year, but I am still enjoying it,” Hernandez told MUTV. “I am still learning and working hard, trying to improve day by day.”

After his initial burst onto the scene at United, there were suggestions that Hernandez might suffer from ‘second season syndrome,’ now that the defenders in the Barclays Premier League have more knowledge of his playing style and strengths. The man himself, however, doesn't feel such challenges are unique to this current campaign.

“I think each year it is going to be more difficult,” he said. “In the first season, not only the defenders but also the coaches didn’t know me. I think now, and in the third and fourth seasons, they are going to know me even more.

“But good players like Wayne (Rooney), (Robin) Van Persie and (Didier) Drogba have been here five, six years or more and still play at the same high level. I need to keep working to do the same.”

The Reds have been able to cope with Hernandez’s absences thanks to a wealth of attacking riches, with Sir Alex Ferguson also fielding the likes of Dimitar Berbatov, Danny Welbeck, Federico Macheda and Mame Biram Diouf this term.

Hernandez praised the resurgent Berbatov – scorer of six goals in his last four games - as well as paying tribute to the rest of the champions’ striking talent.

“Everyone knows Berbatov is a brilliant player. His touch and technique are unbelievable. Then you have Wazza, who is a world-class player, and Danny Welbeck, who is doing very well this season.

“Kiko has gone out on loan but is another good striker, as is Mame. We are very strong in that department, and in the other positions too.”