Frans Hoeck was key to Victor Valdes signing for Manchester United. United's Dutch goalkeeper coach worked with Valdes at Barcelona and convinced the Spaniard to leave his training stint at Liverpool and relocate to Carrington.
El Pais says Valdes was happy to accept the invitation as he worked his way back from a serious knee injury.
The former Barcelona goalkeeper signed an 18 month deal last month after an extended trial period to prove his fitness.
"What a world champion, he shows the kids the right behavior and is an example to his teammates," said U21 coach Warren Joyce. "He's a very humble person and a model professional."
