Neville - Nani can be new Ron

United defender believes Portuguese is a 'matchwinner'

Last updated: 10th February 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Neville - Nani can be new Ron

Nani: Impressive form

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Manchester United veteran Gary Neville believes team-mate Nani is beginning to demonstrate that he can follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Nani has been a frustrating figure for those at Old Trafford in the two-and-a-half years since his £17million move from Sporting Lisbon.

But the winger is starting to show signs that he has finally settled at United after impressive displays against Hull City, Manchester City and Arsenal.

Ahead of Wednesday's trip to Aston Villa, Neville thinks Nani's real ability is becoming evident and that the Portuguese simply required time to build confidence, as was the case with former United star Ronaldo.

Defender Neville said in The Sun: "Nani's performances against Hull City, Manchester City and Arsenal have been absolutely fantastic.

"He has incredible ability, and when he performs like he did against Arsenal he is unstoppable. Players like Nani, who have such high skill levels, rely on confidence.

"We hope the level of performance, determination and skill he has shown in the last few games can be maintained until the end of the season because he's a matchwinner for us. I think Nani can be anything he wants to be.

"People expect so much from young players, but it sometimes takes time. It took time for Cristiano Ronaldo to settle in at United as well."