Manchester United’s Ander Herrera has joked that his challenge on Ross Barkley in the 2-1 FA Cup semi-final win over Everton earlier this term was his side’s Tackle of the Year.
Man United went in front at Wembley thanks to Marouane Fellaini’s strike before Chris Smalling’s own goal levelled things up.
Everton looked dangerous in the closing stages and substitute Herrera cynically brought down Barkley when Roberto Martinez’s side looked to launch a break. The Spaniard then went on to set up Anthony Martial’s last-gasp winner as United booked their spot in the final. Herrera joked that he had no choice but to bring Barkley down:
MUTV suggest to Herrera he should win Tackle of the Year for Barkley challenge. 'I know you like it! I had to do it!' #mufc
— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) May 2, 2016
Herrera’s challenge was certainly a cynical one but it served to further endear the midfielder to supporters. It epitomised Herrera’s willingness to put the needs of the team above all else.
The Spaniard is a nice character off the pitch but he can be feisty on it and it is clear that he really wants to make a success of his time at United.
Herrera has found himself in and out of the side over the course of the campaign but the hope is that he can force his way into Louis van Gaal’s thinking during the final few games of the season.
