Manchester United Manchester United winger Nani determined to prove doubters wrong - Manchester Evening News
And the Portugal winger believes the Reds have already proved those critics wrong after crashing out of the Champions League.
When United were dumped out of the Champions League in December, there were plenty who felt Sir Alex Ferguson would be forced to take the Europa League seriously because, by the time his side played in it, that trophy would be the only one they could win.
Yet, in the middle of February, they are still in the thick of a Premier League title challenge long after traditional top-four rivals Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool have fallen away.
And after securing a first-leg win over Ajax in Amsterdam that makes next Thursday's return leg a near formality, Nani believes he and his team-mates can look back on the last few weeks with a sense of satisfaction.
"Everyone expects us to do something different, that we haven't done in the past," he said.
"We have always been in first position. We have won so many trophies and reach the final of every competition. But, of course, sometimes you lose matches that you don't anticipate.
"After we lost in the Champions League, a lot of people thought we would lose more games and see other teams win the trophies.
"But we are strong and we are fighting in every game to continue to give our supporters what they want – titles.
"That is what we want as well."
Ferguson's team selection in the Amsterdam ArenA reflected a clear intention to win despite talk that he would rest his first-team regulars.
And far from focusing solely on overhauling neighbours City and securing a record 20th league title, Nani is just as determined to lift the Europa League trophy in Bucharest on May 9.
"This is an important competition and we have to enjoy it," he said.
"Of course, the Champions League is the most important trophy for everyone. It is the biggest trophy in Europe.
"But now we are here, we just think about this competition. The club has never won the trophy. Now we will try to do this."
The only downside to the victory in Amsterdam was Antonio Valencia's hamstring injury which could rule the Ecuador winger out for a month. But despite the blow, Nani was delighted to see Tom Cleverley, Ashley Young and Phil Jones back in action.
"It is very important to have everyone fit and ready for the big games that are in front of us," he added.
What is your verdict on Nani's form this season? Have your say.
19 Feb, 2012
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