Edinson Cavani has revealed he is revelling in his role as Manchester United's 'elder statesman' behind the scenes.
The 34-year-old has been spearheading Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's attack this season and looks set to start the Europa League final against Villarreal, where he'll be keen to add to his 16 United goals.
Cavani's recent form persuaded United to offer him a year's contract extension and the Uruguayan has also been offering plenty of advice and experience to his teammates too.
Speaking to Uefa's official website before Wednesday's final, the United forward admitted he is enjoying playing the part of the seasoned senior professional.
He said: "I’ve always said that I’m a football student. Throughout my whole career, I’ve tried to learn and absorb positive things that could make me a better player, and a better team-mate, and I try to show that with the team.
"Nowadays, I’m the oldest player, the elder statesman in the team, and that’s a great motivation for me. It pushes me during training sessions, it pushes me when I’m about to go out and play a match and compete.
"So, I try to enjoy it and work hard for my team without thinking all the time: 'I have to set an example.' I think that you set an example with your behaviour, how you compete, doing your best for your team, always being there to train, trying to be the best player in training sessions."
Cavani also lauded the recent return of fans, having scored his first ever goal in front of United supporters in the 1-1 draw with Fulham. Uefa have confirmed 9,500 fans will be allowed to watch the Europa League final in Gdansk, with a small United contingent making the trip.
He added: "It’s pure passion over the 90 minutes, you know, the connection between the player and the fan.
"All of these months with no fans has been tough. It’s been a loss to what the essence of football is, and I think the fact that now the fans will be coming back to the stadiums gradually will help a lot, all the more so at a team like Manchester United, which has a fiery and passionate fanbase. I think it’ll go great for them. Let’s hope that everything starts to go back to normal."
