Manchester United striker Michael Owen hails Javier Hernandez’s impact at the club

Javier Hernandez, Manchester United

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Manchester United striker Michael Owen has hailed the impact Javier Hernandez has had at the club since his arrival last summer, praising the speed at which the Mexican has adapted to life at Old Trafford.

Hernandez, nicknamed Chicharito, has been a revelation for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side since his arrival from Chivas last summer, scoring 20 goals and keeping Premier League top scorer out of the side for large parts of the season.

The Mexican’s form has further limited Owen’s first team opportunities at Old Trafford this term, but the former England striker hailed Hernandez’s impact on the side.

“He is a sharper version of what I am now,” admitted Owen.

“When you buy a player you hope he is going to be a permanent fixture in the team but I don’t think anyone could have envisaged it being so soon.”

Hernandez is expected to start alongside Wayne Rooney in attack for United against Barcelona in the Champions League final and ahead of the game Owen has praised the 22-year-old’s eye for goal.

“The instinctiveness of his play inside the box to sniff out chances is impressive and he is a cracking finisher.”

Owen also added that Hernandez’s ability to handle the pressure of high-profile matches was a huge factor in his success.

“He has played and scored in the World Cup and in a Champions League semi-final, which would suggest he can handle the big stage. That is important at a club like this.”