Chicharito - The Biography of Javier Hernandez

Book excerpt: Javier Hernandez - better known to legions of Manchester United fans as Chicharito - is one of the most exciting young talents in football today.Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Hernandez joined his local club C D Guadalajara at the age of nine and signed his first contract at 15. Making his full debut in 2006, he impressed in the Mexican league so much that he caught the eye of a Manchester United scout in 2009. He signed for United on 8 April 2010 and scored on his debut in the MLS All-Star Game on 28 July. Since then, Hernandez has continued to light up the Old Trafford pitch, becoming a firm favourite with fans (who voted him Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year in 2011) and scoring vital goals for the club. He became the first player since Ruud van Nistelrooy to score more than 20 goals in his debut season as United clinched a record-equalling 19th Premier League title, and despite some injury concerns in the opening half of the 2011/12 season, he has continued to be a major player for United. Still only 24 years old, the 'little pea' has committed himself to United until 2016 and looks set to help the Reds to yet more glory. This is his fascinating story.