Recent weeks have proven nothing for Carlo Ancelotti’s men if Mexican player Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez remains on the Real Madrid bench.
There can be no denying the quality of talent within the Mexican international.
His skills were sought immediately by Sir Alex Ferguson, whom at the time was the long-reigning coach of prominent English side Manchester United. At the Red Devils the now 26-year-old was mentored by some of the brightest football minds the world has seen, moulded into a player keen to impress onlookers with every aspect of his game.
Indeed his performances made a lasting impression on Real Madrid, which in September of 2014 signed the developing star on a one year loan deal with the option of purchase at the conclusion of the contract.
Unfortunately for the “Little Pea” he arrived at a time of player, or rather star abundance, with Real having already a number world class names in their arsenal. The likes of Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema meant Chicharito would almost inevitably be sidelined and be forced to watch the games as a mere spectator.
However, due to the respective calf and knee injuries to the Welshman and the French international, Hernandez was given rare opportunities to contribute for the side. On these occasions, he has more than proven himself to be worthy of a position in the starting XI and will indeed have more time on the pitch than off.
The Mexican international has been typically described as a “goal-poacher”, scoring numerous times from close range, however, the 26-year-old is agile and quick with the ability to use both feet better than most forwards. Despite his height, Hernandez is excellent in the air and has good control.
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This combined with his peak physical condition, has proven to work in his advantage.
The quarter-final Champions League start was only his 23rd appearance for the season, despite being fit to compete. In this time he has scored on five separate occasions and has created a total of seven chances for his compatriots.
Real narrowly edged out their home-town rivals Atletico Madrid for a last four position in the competition. The big surprise, however, was the goal-scorer.
Yes you guessed it, Chicharito Hernandez.
The winning goal came just prior to the conclusion of normal time, when the Mexican international was on hand to put Ronaldo’s assist into the back of the net and seal Real’s fifth successive European Semi-final. Hernandez had several earlier opportunities to put the Los Galacticos in the lead, yet the chances were rushed and pushed wide on either side of the goal.
https://youtu.be/_zCCCvODYPU
Nonetheless, he has highlighted to fans and critics alike that he is an attacking force to be reckoned with in the forward line, however, he has had many frustrating moments since his move to the Spanish capital as a result of the lack of playing time given to him.
“I cooperate, I help and give my 100 per cent in training but in the games the opportunities are slim,” he said in an interview with Fox Sports last month.
“I’m in a team but left out of what is important, which are the games.
“At times my confidence is at rock bottom although I always try for it to be sky high,” he continued.
“The most important thing is to have opportunities and have confidence in yourself.
“Whenever they [Real] have placed their confidence in me, the numbers have been positive.”
Of course, competition for a spot in a side like Real is not uncommon, indeed it should be known and accepted.
Yet judging by the Mexican’s recent performances, it seems more of coach Carlo Ancelotti’s confidence may very well be placed in Hernandez and he will certainly not disappoint.
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