Bryan Robson has pinpointed Ander Herrera as one of the key figures in Manchester United 's revival . United are fourth in the table just two points behind second-placed Manchester City . They face their neighbours and defending champions on April 12 during a crucial four game spell that sees them take on Aston Villa , Chelsea and Everton . However , the manner of their victories against Tottenham and Liverpool in recent weeks has been ominous . Bryan Robson has hailed Ander Herrera as one of the key figures in Manchester United 's revival this year . Herrera celebrates after scoring the opening goal during their FA Cup third round match with Yeovil Town . Former United captain Robson recognises that Juan Mata has been winning the bulk of the plaudits but admires the qualities Herrera is showing . 'Ander started off the season well and he ’ s got a lot of energy , ' Robson told ManUtd.com . 'He is always on the move , trying to close people down really quickly . He has got a lot of qualities really , it ’ s just getting them out of him on a consistent basis . But he has got that in his locker , maybe it ’ s just taken him and a few of the new signings time to adapt to the Premier League . ' Herrera set up Mata 's first goal against Liverpool with an inch-perfect pass and the 25-year-old acquisition from Athletic Bilbao has shown signs of being able to provide a greater tempo to United 's play . 'He is quite good defensively and , when I watch him , I can see he has a lot of energy and he does like to get involved ' added Robson . 'What I like about him is that , when people are on the ball , he is always on the move to try and receive the pass . ' Herrera was outstanding against Liverpool at Anfield last week and has been in fine form for United . Robson ( left ) pictured shooting for United against Barcelona at Old Trafford in 1984 .
Manchester United has hailed Ander Herrera as a key figure for the club . Bryan Robson are just two points behind neighbours and rivals City . Ex-United captain Robson recognises Herrera 's qualities and hard work . READ : Why has it taken Louis van Gaal so long to play Herrera ? CLICK HERE for all the latest Bryan Robson news .