Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera believes former club Manchester United can have a big season ahead.

Herrera was speaking after Sunday's 1-1 preseason draw in Dublin.

He told MUTV: "I want to be optimistic, I watched the game yesterday and the second half was fantastic at Old Trafford. I think today we [Bilbao] also played a good game.

"It is true after the red card we were tired and we just couldn't defend enough and United scored a goal. Of course I am optimistic, I try to always be like this at the beginning of the season.

"Last year United improved a lot and I think they are close to reaching Manchester City and I am going to support from Bilbao and hopefully we can both have a fantastic season."