Former Manchester United boss David Moyes has spoken of Marouane Fellaini's problems last season. Fellaini was heavily criticised at United after following Moyes from Everton in a £27 million move.
In his column for The Sunday Times yesterday, Moyes wrote: "'I felt for him over the criticism he took. He's a shy boy, a humble boy, a quiet personality. Despite appearances - the hair makes him look like an extrovert - he's a gentle, sometimes, emotional soul who is so desperate to do well and he was hurting because he wasn't able to show his true self at the start of his United career.
"Without going over old ground regarding last summer's transfer window, I want to make two points. The last thing we wanted was to make him my first signing as United manager and the only signing of the summer.
"That was always going to bring too great a spotlight on him. But by the time we got to deadline day the club hadn't been able to close a couple of big deals and there was no choice.
"His size is such a threat to the opposition. He's technically gifted, especially when it comes to chest control, and he's formidable in the air - though, actually, I feel he should score more headers than he does. He can run.
"He has brilliant fitness, a brilliant attitude. What we saw him do against Algeria was what I brought him to Manchester United for.
"He took time to settle at Old Trafford but in the final month of last season was becoming an influence, a different sort of player to the ones already there and one who was having an impact in games and helping produce goals. I feel he still has the potential to go on and be a good United player."
