Little Pea comes out of his shell

JAVIER Hernandez is confident his first competitive goal for Manchester United will provide just the confidence boost he needs.

The £7million Mexican came off the bench to score an 85th–minute winner for United in Valencia last night.

It was only the Red Devils’ second triumph in 19 attempts against Spanish opposition on Spanish soil and more importantly put them back on track for a place in the last 16 after a stuttering start to their campaign against Rangers a fortnight ago. And for Hernandez, it was a goal to savour.

“The goal will give me so much confidence,” he said.

“I am only at the start of my career with United and to score so early in the Champions League is a big boost.

“It is great to be a Manchester United player and I want that to continue for a long time.”

Hernandez’s late effort settled a game of few chances.

Although Valencia had plenty of possession, they were rarely able to break through the United rearguard, and Edwin van der Sar made only one save of note.

Much of that was due to the presence of Rio Ferdinand alongside skipper Nemanja Vidic for the first time this season.