GARNA BE GREAT ETH a real Nacho man

ERIK TEN HAG feels that the penny has finally dropped for Alejandro Garnacho on what it takes to be a Manchester United superstar.

Liverpool arrive at Old Trafford today boasting their own new breed of starlets who are set to be Jurgen Klopp’s legacy gift as he departs Anfield.

But few teens possess the swaggering talent of the Argentinian winger who has been a beacon of hope in a dismal United campaign. Garnacho’s bagged seven goals, provided three assists and been a potent weapon in a breakthrough season playing 37 games. His stunning overhead kick at Everton in November may be Goal of the Season and he has usurped Marcus Rashford as poster boy.

But Garnacho needed the hard words of Ten Hag and demanding skipper Bruno Fernandes to find the right road after mistakes put him on a collision course with his boss and senior stars.

A sloppy attitude and a solo mentality led to conflict at the start of last season.

But now Ten Hag (right) admits Garnacho’s maturing into the real deal.

“When you are young it’s normal. Players must become an adult quickly. You have to take responsibility and learn how you do that.

“Now Alejandro is in a good way, in a very good direction,” says Ten Hag.

“He knows now what it takes and why you need that standard to play and to be at a good level.

“You achieve the levels, keep the focus, and know it’s not only about you but the team and it’s about what you have to contribute.”

Ten Hag revealed United skipper Fernandes has helped the transition from precocious kid to a rising star and the youngster has won his captain’s trust.

He said: “For that you need a player like Bruno. They also need a bit of freedom but with that belongs responsibility. You can never separate this – at the end of the day it’s about winning games.

“To win you need reliable, creative players. If they make that step then they are very valuable for a winning team.”

Ten Hag says returning midfielder Mason Mount has the class and quality to be a part of United’s future.

Mount has been dogged by injury since a £55million summer move from Chelsea.

But after a four-month lay-off recovering from a calf problem, Ten Hag is excited about Mount’s return. He said: “When he is fit and playing he will get into rhythm, he will contribute to a successful team.”