• Premier League

Fergie keeping Nani on a tight lead

ESPN staff
March 25, 2011
Nani has had a lot to celebrate this season © PA Photos
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Nani has revealed he has been forced to curb his natural instincts by Sir Alex Ferguson, but feels he is reaping the benefits of playing regularly for Manchester United.

The Portuguese winner has emerged from the shadow of Cristiano Ronaldo and has arguably been United's most influential player this season. The 24-year-old is finally starting to fulfil the potential that prompted Ferguson to sign him from Sporting Lisbon in 2007 but it has taken time for Nani to adjust to the demands the Scot sets.

"I try to enjoy playing now, but it is not always possible because I have a responsibility to the team," Nani told Spain's Don Balón.

"But something of the street remains in me. It is not easy to show at United because Sir Alex does not allow very much freedom and I cannot do the tricks and things I did with my friends.

"When the game is under control I take a risk and it makes me very happy if things work out."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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