Zlatan's contribution is not over, says Herrera

Cape Town - Ander Herrera believes Zlatan Ibrahimovic's contribution to Manchester United's Europa League campaign is not over, despite being sidelined for the final.

The Red Devils midfielder says that his influential team-mate's presence on the sidelines at the Europa League final against his former club, Ajax Amsterdam, will be enough to spur his side on to victory.

Ibrahimovic, who recently returned to the club's training complex after undergoing knee ligament surgery, will be travelling to the Friends Arena to support his colleagues in their quest for the club's third trophy of the 2016/17 season.

The lack of experience in Jose Mourinho's side is something of a concern ahead of the fixture, but Herrera feels that the presence of legendary Swede will go a long way towards giving the side enough confidence to lift the trophy.

"I always say this is a team sport, we are a team," Herrera told reporters. "The reason we have won two titles (Community Shield and EFL Cup) this season is because everyone has been there, working, helping. This final is for everyone.

"Of course 11 players will be on the pitch but everyone is ready to help and push for their team-mates. So, if we win it, it will be for everyone. Everyone has been part of this.

"Zlatan and Ash (Ashley Young) have very good experience. We need everyone.

"When you want to win a European trophy and you want to make a good season, it is not only on the pitch, you need help from the outside. Zlatan is here to help, Ash is also here to help. We are a team who is together. Everyone is important," the Spain international added.

Upon sustaining the injury there was much speculation that Ibrahimovic would consider bowing out of football, given its severity and his advanced age. However, Herrera is convinced that the 35-year old still has enough motivation and quality to keep scoring at the highest level.

"He is with us, he is supporting us," he added. "I think he is very good. He is optimistic. He is 100% sure he will be back because he cannot stop winning.

"He cannot stop scoring. For sure, he will be back at the best."