Manchester United's on-loan striker Radamel Falcao has hailed Dutch goal scoring great Ruud van Nistelrooy as his favourite ex-Old Trafford hero and has stated once more that he is wager to make a success of his career in the English Premier League.
Falcao has been speaking about the United idols he used to admire from afar and it is clear he would relish the chance to follow in their footsteps at the Manchester club.
"You know I always admired Ruud van Nistelrooy in my position," Falcao said in the Daily Mirror. "He was a star attraction for me.
"Above and beyond him, I liked Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes for their style of play. It is much admired by players from all over the world.
"David Beckham, of course. I couldn't fail to mention him as he has opened up routes between continents as a footballer. They are legends who press all the right buttons. Eric Cantona as well, he was a very exciting and entertaining player to watch."
Falcao scored only his second goal for United last Saturday since his summer loan move from Monaco, with injury interrupting his progress at United and casting doubt over his long-term future at the club.
United have a reported 43.5 million-pound deal in place to sign the Colombian permanently next summer so long as he proves himself at United. It is clear from his comments that he is eager to make the most of his opportunity in the league.
"Obviously to be here is a dream for me and I always worked to be here. So, my first goal for Manchester United [against Everton] I will always remember," he added. "I like being in England and enjoy it. It is a new culture and a new language. I want to learn more of this language and I will study so then it will be even easier to live here.
"I was always told that the Premier League would suit my playing style and England has always attracted me. Ever since I was a child I always wanted to come here, so much so that I learned the language. So I was preparing myself in some way for a future move to England.
"I think the best way I can repay the supporters for their kindness towards me, and for all their love, support and appreciation, is to score goals and win trophies for them."