Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera Photo: Uefa handout

Paul Mariner has described Ander Herrera as Manchester United’s unsung hero.

The Spain international came into his own under the management of Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese coach replaced Louis van Gaal last summer.

Herrera became one of Mourinho’s valued lieutenants last season as the tenacious midfielder scored one goal and made six assists in the Premier League.

The 28-year-old is rumoured to be on the verge of signing a new long-term contract as Manchester United reward the former Athletic Bilbao star for his consistent performances last season.

Herrera has less than 12 months to run on his current four-year deal that he signed following a 28.8m move to Manchester United from Bilbao in 2014.

Former Arsenal striker Mariner lavished praise on the Manchester United midfielder as Herrera prepares to sign a new contract at the club.

“Herrera is an unsung hero,” Mariner told ESPN FC.

“He isn’t concerned with the big stage – Theatre of Dreams. He is a fantastic player for Manchester United.”

Manchester United won the EFL Cup and the Europa League in their first season under Jose Mourinho’s management.

However, the Red Devils will be hoping to do better in the Premier League following a sixth-place finish last term.

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