Hernandez Keeping The Faith

The Mexico forward was introduced as a late substitute at Old Trafford on Tuesday but could not prevent United being held to a 2-2 draw by Benfica, a result which almost certainly costs United any chance of advancing into the knockout phase as group winners, even if they collect the point from their final game against Basle in Switzerland next month that will guarantee a place in the last 16.

The Red Devils are therefore virtually certain to be pitched into a tough last-16 confrontation with one of Europe's superpowers. However, after bouncing back from their 6-1 humiliation by Manchester City last month, Hernandez believes his team-mates have no need to prove their mental fortitude, saying: "We have come through worse moments than this one."

He added: "Our results in the league since City say a lot about the character of this club. The whole history of Manchester United is about never giving in.

"We have lost two points but we are still in the fight and we are confident of getting the right result."

Before that, United must come through a couple of crucial Barclays Premier League games, against Newcastle at Old Trafford on Saturday at Aston Villa seven days later, plus a home Carling Cup quarter-final with Crystal Palace.

With doubts persisting over the fitness of Wayne Rooney for the weekend given Sir Alex Ferguson reported the 26-year-old was not even 70% ahead of Tuesday's encounter, Hernandez looks set to be recalled to face the Magpies.

Goals in two of United's last three league games indicate a man in form, although, as ever, Hernandez prefers to spread the accolades more thinly.

"I always say goals are a consequence of the effort from all the team," said the five-goal forward.

"At Manchester United, there are no heroes. It is the team that scores, that is why I have never set myself a goals target."

Source: PA

Source: PA