Michael Owen is confident Edinson Cavani will be a success at Manchester United after the Uruguayan made his debut against Chelsea.
The 33-year-old joined on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day but was forced to delay his first appearance for United as he needed to quarantine following his arrival from France earlier this month.
Cavani was brought on as a second-half substitute in United’s goalless draw with Chelsea at Old Trafford on Saturday and nearly scored with his first touch as he darted across the front post and steered the ball just inches wide of Edouard Mendy’s goalpost.
Cavani also went close later on but was denied following an excellent block by his former PSG teammate Thiago Silva.
After the match, Owen praised Cavani’s impact and believes the Uruguayan will be a hit for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side if he is provided with the right service.
‘I love this guy’s movement, he’s my type of striker,’ Owen told Premier League Productions.
‘I’ve always said half a yard at the near post is better than two or three yards at the back post because invaribly the ball doesn’t get there.
‘And if it does, defenders turn, spin and close you down.
‘The timing of his run, he’s on his toes, Thiago [Silva] played alongside him at Paris Saint-Germain, he knows exactly how he does it, when he tries to time it, you could see that, talk about knowing your players, great defending.
‘We only saw a brief cameo but I’ve seen him for years and years and always thought he’s one of the best movers in the game in terms of those little darting runs, he loves nipping in front of defenders.
‘I think he’s going to score a few.
‘As long as United have pressure on the opponents. They get crosses in. He’s very much an 18-yard box type of striker that makes darting runs.’
