Ashley Young has backed Angel Di Maria, saying he is sure Manchester United did not make an expensive mistake when they broke the British transfer record to sign him from Real Madrid for 59.7 million pounds in the summer.
United smashed the British transfer record to bring the Argentina international to Old Trafford, but he has struggled to match his early impact after suffering a hamstring problem towards the end of last year.
But Young, reported to be in talks over a new contract, told United Uncovered: "Angel was a fantastic signing.
"Real Madrid have other top players like Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, but he was the one who stood out for me in that team last season.
"When you add quality to a squad that already has quality it can only help us.
#INSERT type:Di Maria has been praised by both Young and Carrick. END#
"We saw in the first couple of days in training just how good a player Angel is and what we can expect from him. He was definitely a great signing for us."
Di Maria has scored three goals since arriving at United, but has been played in several different positions.
The 27-year-old has operated as a No. 10 in recent weeks and had a spell as a central striker when manager Louis van Gaal felt United lacked pace up front.
He has been at his most effective when operating on the left-hand side of a midfield diamond.
Michael Carrick, who sits at the base of that diamond, likened Di Maria to Ryan Giggs, saying: "There are players who have got tricks and can drop the shoulder to go past players, but he is so direct in his play.
"It is almost like Giggsy used to be in many ways. When he picks that ball up, he can carry it and change direction pretty quickly. It is very tough to defend against.''
United will be without Carrick for Monday's FA Cup fifth-round tie at Preston after he suffered a setback in his recovery from a calf injury.
Daley Blind looks set to continue in the holding midfield role, provided he recovers from the head injury he suffered in the midweek 3-1 win over Burnley.
Van Gaal will make a late call on Robin van Persie, who has an unspecified injury.