Magnificent Manu – a manager’s dream

Manu Lanzini was of course back to his magnificent best yesterday in the dramatic win at Selhurst Park.

His goal was one of those which only he seems capable of scoring – magnificent feet and feint past defenders to find the net in truly amazing fashion.

The old saying of hard work bringing its own reward could not be more true of Manu who has been one of the most loyal and uncomplaining players we have ever seen at the club.

After a devastating injury in pre-World Cup training with the Argentine he eventually returned to action but could reach nothing like his best form. And it led to many of us – myself included -all but writing him off.

But just now and again on his various appearances, which included very few starts, he showed a glimpse of the form which had persuaded the club to buy him.

Now – at just 5ft 6 in and less than 10 stones – he is proving a giant for us and yesterday was as good as it gets showing he’s a manager’s dream.

With Said Benrahma off to Afcon, Manu is set to get a regular run in the team and could again become a permanently truly inspirational figure .

Not once has he moaned, not one has he gone public with any hint of complaint about not being given minutes.

The man is a total professional down to his fingertips and there won’t be a fan who isn’t delighted for this fabulous midfielder who at 28 still has plenty of years in front of him.