It is said that one of Manchester United's most important first-team players grew up idolising Benni McCarthy, who recently joined Erik ten Hag's coaching staff, while more details of the South African's appointment have been revealed.
Ten Hag Explains Benni Appointment
While the appointment of Bafana Bafana's record goalscorer at United this past weekend came as a surprise to many in South Africa, it appears he has a few admirers in the Premier League team's dressing room.
According to The Athletic, star midfielder Bruno Fernandes looked up to McCarthy growing up, with journalist Andy Mitten describing the former Cape Town City head coach as a "childhood hero" for the Portugal international.
The 27-year-old playmaker was a big fan of FC Porto as a child and was delighted with the news that the 2003/04 UEFA Champions League winner would be joining Ten Hag's staff.
It is further claimed that McCarthy had a positive relationship with wantaway forward Cristiano Ronaldo during the No. 7's first spell at the club, and that his arrival at Old Trafford has been a long time coming.
It is said that Dutch tactician Ten Hag told McCarthy already in pre-season that he would like the South African to join his coaching staff, and that the ex-striker impressed during a four-part trial process and in his interview for the role.
The journalist further wrote that, after Ten Hag asked McCarthy to contact the club to finalise his contract, the former Porto star did not once ask what his salary would be.
Did you see McCarthy's first day at Old Trafford as a member of staff? Click through the gallery below:
