Manuel Lanzini – probably more than any other player – deserves a huge end of season after the eight month battle he staged following the shocking cruciate injury he suffered during World Cup training.
His comeback is well known but that doesn’t make the achievement any less amazing and he is now looking forward to showing the fans what they have been missing over the last dozen games.
Boss Manuel Pellegrini has dampened down expectations among the supporters by declaring his re-introduction will need to be carefully managed.
But Manu is desperate to repay the fans for their loyalty and support by becoming part of a great end of season as he looks forward to another successful campaign next season.
With play makers like him, Felipe Anderson and Samir Nasri in the team the faithful could be about to see the sort of football for which we have been screaming out these last few years.
Manu told www.whufc.com: “The sound of the supporters cheering for me and singing my name when I entered the pitch in the second half was unbelievable and it is what I have worked so hard for.
“At times, my recovery and rehabilitation were not easy, both physically and mentally, and many feelings and many things went through my head, but I stayed positive and gave maximum effort to my work.
“I want to thank the fans for the support you always gave me and I believe the positive thoughts you shared definitely helped me to return stronger. I love you all.
“I also want to thank my girlfriend and my family for the unconditional support they gave me during this challenging period, as well as Miguel and Ezequiel for their support.
“I felt good on Friday, but I know I still have work to do to get to my best fitness levels and best form. I am determined to get there, but I know I have to be sensible and not rush things.
“We have many good things to work for in the future and I am looking forward to playing for Mister Pellegrini and his staff. We have a very strong squad here and hopefully we can achieve good things this season and in the next seasons.
“Thank you very much to everyone. I am sure the best is yet to come.”
