Javier Hernandez praises "really good" Louis van Gaal

Former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has lavished praise upon manager Louis van Gaal, insisting that he is one of the best in the world.

The 27-year-old was sold by Van Gaal last August to Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, where he has since gone on to score 25 goals in 37 games.

Meanwhile, the Dutchman has endured a season plagued by fan unrest and constant speculation over his position at Old Trafford.

"He is a really good manager, to be honest. He has his own ways like all the managers in the world," Hernandez told Sky Sports News.

"You will not find the new Sir Alex Ferguson in the next 50 or 100 years because he was unique. He was special. Van Gaal can do it but in football, time and results are going to speak about if he is the main man or if he is not."

Hernandez, who spent five seasons in Manchester, went on to admit that he left for Germany after being told by Van Gaal that he would always play second fiddle to Wayne Rooney in the pecking order.

"He just told me that my chances to play would be very hard. I appreciate that he was very honest since the beginning," he added.

"When I left, he told me my chances and my opportunities were going to be less because his main striker was going to be Wayne Rooney. If he wasn't fit for example, I was going to play but when he was ready he would play."

Hernandez's goals have been instrumental for Leverkusen this term as they look to secure Champions League qualification for the fourth successive season.