Everton midfielder Manuel Fernandes is backing Portugal U21 teammate Nani to be a success at Manchester United.

Fernandes, whose contract is owned by Benfica, said: "Nani has always had a lot of talent, even when we were growing up. He will be a great player. Of course, Cristiano inspires us all, everyone needs to look at him because he is one of the best in the world.

"Nani isn't the new Ronaldo. One is Ronaldo; the other is Nani. You cannot put both players in the same package. A lot of pressure has been put on to Nani in comparisons with Ronaldo but he must be left to do his own thing. He is very strong and that is why a team like Manchester United wanted him."

Another of Nani's U21 pals, Miguel Veloso, also said: "Manchester United have the example with Cristiano Ronaldo where he had time to come and develop and we are thinking the same will happen with Nani.

"I know Nani well, as I have worked with him, and I am sure he will develop his qualities in time to be as much of a good player [as Ronaldo]."