Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand recently spoke about one player he thinks the club should never have sold: striker Javier Hernandez.

In an interview on TNT Sports Mexico, Ferdinand shared his thoughts on Hernandez’s time at Old Trafford. He explained that the Mexican forward worked very hard to fit into a new country, a new team, and a club with big expectations.

Ferdinand said Hernandez was always focused, eager to learn, and asked many questions to improve himself. He believes Hernandez was a perfect example for young players trying to succeed in a big club.

According to Ferdinand, it was a “big mistake” for Manchester United to sell Hernandez. He said defenders found it very hard to stop him, and it was surprising the club let him go.

Javier Hernandez joined Manchester United in July 2010 during the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson era. He spent four years at the club before being loaned to Real Madrid in the 2014-15 season under then-manager David Moyes.

After his loan spell, Louis van Gaal sold Hernandez to German club Bayer Leverkusen on a permanent deal.

Ferdinand’s comments highlight how much the former Red Devils defender respected Hernandez’s dedication and talent, and why he believes Manchester United missed out by selling him too early.