Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists Javier Hernandez is a big part of his plans. Ferguson believes the 24-year-old will feel the benefit of a rare period of extended rest and can have a significant impact as the Red Devils seek to win back their Premier League crown.

"I think this season we'll see a better Chicharito," Ferguson told Inside United.

"For the last four or five years he's played all through the summer. This year, with the co-operation of Mexico, he's had a proper rest.

"And that started right back in May when I decided not to take him to Belfast for the Harry Gregg testimonial.

"We wanted to give him as much rest as possible. He had a couple of weeks off and then joined the Mexico side for a couple of qualifying games before getting another few weeks' rest.

"That was important for him and I'm sure he'll reap the benefits. We've already seen the fruits of that in the early training sessions and I think he'll have a top season.

"He's such a good professional and such a fantastic personality."