Gerard Pique is determined to repay the faith shown in him by Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The young Spaniard has seen plenty of action for United this season and told The Times' The Game podcast: "Zaragoza tried to sign me in the summer but I knew what the answer would be.

"Since the first day I arrived at Old Trafford, Sir Alex has showed me he has a lot of confidence in me and I'm trying to do my best to show him I can be part of this team. I can be a Manchester United player.

"He talks to you a lot - not only about football, but about everything in life. Elsewhere, there are other leaders. Rio Ferdinand talks a lot to you on the pitch and helps you out. Ryan Giggs is quiet but in the dressing room the power and the experience he has really comes out. It's important for players like me to be around someone like Ryan because the confidence he has in himself can pass on to you and it helps your game."