Tom Cleverly strive to be as welbeck
The much-maligned midfielder completed a season- long loan move to Aston Villa on transfer deadline day and is keen to shine away from Old Trafford
footsteps and prove himself away from Manchester United
this season.
The midfielder came in for heavy criticism from sections of
the Old Trafford support as the club faltered under David
Moyes in 2013-14, leading to Cleverley joining Aston Villa o
loan on transfer deadline day.
Welbeck, meanwhile, has scored four goals since sealing
his €20 million move to Arsenal, and Cleverley is keen to
emulate his former team-mate, having been given a chance
to shine at Villa Park.
"Leaving United is definitely not the end,” he told the
Telegraph . “We both came up through the academy and
were living the dream at the team we grew up at.
“I wouldn't change it for the world, I've played in the
Champions League, I've played for my country and won the
league. But United is not the be all and end all. I'm sure
we're both happy to be on the pitch and playing 90 minutes
every week.
"I always knew Danny [Welbeck] would take his opportunity.
I don't think people realise how technically good and quick
he is.”
Such was the vitriol aimed at Cleverley that an online
petition was set up last season in a bid to stop Roy
Hodgson calling him into his England squad for the World
Cup.
The 25-year-old admits that he struggled to enjoy himself
on the pitch during the campaign, but says he has received
a new lease of life having sealed a move away from United.
"Last year at times it wasn't enjoyable and you play your
best football when you're enjoying yourself,” he admitted. “I
certainly am enjoying myself now, so hopefully that can
show for Villa on the pitch."
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