Nani was on target twice for a Manchester United XI outfit against Crewe Alexandra yesterday.
While Manchester United have been completing their rather unconvincing pre-season tour of Asia, other members of the squad, unfit to travel, have instead been back in the UK building up their fitness – hoping to get themselves in shape for the new season.
Now while there was no sign of Wayne Rooney, three other first-teamers were making their tentative approaches toward a return, in a friendly against Crewe Alexandra yesterday.
Antonio Valencia and Nemanja Vidic both featured for a Manchester United XI at Gresty Road – but it was the performance of Portuguese winger Nani that really stole the show.
The wide-man has found himself linked with an exit from Old Trafford over the summer – with reports of a move to AS Monaco picking up particular credence yesterday, as the clubs sporting director admitted the mega-rich principality sides interest in signing the player.
Considering that his contract expires in a year, and so far negotiations have been essentially non-existent regarding a renewal, it certainly seems they will be selling the player this summer – or losing him on a free transfer in a years’ time.
On top of Monaco’s confirmed interest, the likes of Juventus and Arsenal have also been linked with a move for the player.
But if David Moyes needed a timely reminder of just what Nani can do, when he actually puts his mind to it, then it was certainly demonstrated yesterday.
A United team consisting mainly of youngsters and reserve team players ran out comfortable 2-0 winners on the day – with Nani bagging both goals.
But his first goal in particular, was something of a magic strike.
Nani did his best impression of his more illustrious countryman Cristiano Ronaldo with a superb free-kick from range – that left the Railwaymen keeper with absolutely no chance.
Now we all know Nani is likely to leave but we also all know about his natural ability as a footballer, and if he plays like we all know he can, then United would be hurt by letting him go.
But the simple fact is – we have not seen enough of this in recent times…
image: © notsogoodphotography
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