Former Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera says there will always be a special place in his heart for our supporters.
The 33-year-old, who spent five years at Old Trafford from 2014 to 2019, featured during the final 15 minutes at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, as the Reds rounded off our pre-season endeavours with a 1-1 draw against Athletic Club.
Having received a standing ovation from large sections of our fans in Dublin, Ander's efforts have always been widely appreciated by supporters and it's something he says he will always hold dear.
Having received a standing ovation from large sections of our fans in Dublin, Ander's efforts have always been widely appreciated by supporters and it's something he says he will always hold dear.
“It is always fantastic to play in front of these fans,’’ began Ander, as he spoke to MUTV post-match in Ireland.
“I have already done it a lot of times and always I feel proud to do it. Today here in Dublin. It was fantastic.
“They have shown me the support, the love and they know I feel the same for the club, for all of them.
“So I hope both teams, we [can] have a great season. Thanks to all of them for their love, for their support. And they know I will never forget them.’’
Now back playing in his home country after a four-year spell with Paris Saint-Germain, Ander made an appearance on the UTD Podcast last year, speaking about his time with the club that included FA Cup and Europa League success.
Keen to reiterate how he will always be a fan of the club, Ander added that even from afar, his admiration for United will always remain.
Keen to reiterate how he will always be a fan of the club, Ander added that even from afar, his admiration for United will always remain.
“Of course it is special and that touches me,”when quizzed on the reception he received following his introduction.
“That means you have done something good for the club, at least. I always put everything on the pitch for the club, for the badge. I feel so proud to have been a Manchester United player.
“That stays with me for the rest of my life and and I will support from Bilbao the team.
“I am optimistic for this season as well with the Premier League and with all the trophies, so I hope both teams we can have a great season.”
With the Reds having played twice in just over 24 hours, Herrera also added how he couldn't resist tuning in on Saturday afternoon to watch Erik ten Hag's side take on Lens.
“I think today, we also played a good game. It's true that after the red cad we were tired. We couldn't just defend and in the end United scored their goal.
“I watched the game yesterday and the second half was fantastic at Old Trafford,”added Ander.
“I think today, we also played a good game. It's true that after the red cad we were tired. We couldn't just defend and in the end United scored their goal.
“I am optimistic. I always try to be like this at the beginning of the season.
“Last year, United improved a lot. I think they are close to reaching the last year's champions, Manchester City.
“I'm going to support from Bilbao as I already said and hopefully we can have a fantastic season.’’