Kagawa Intent On Solving Manchester United's Winger Woes

Shinji Kagawa has insisted he is perfectly capable of playing on the left for Manchester United as he bids to prove his worth to manager David Moyes.

The Japan international has been utilised in his favoured position behind the striker in recent weeks but has found himself forced out wide for the majority of his career at United as Moyes and his predecessor Sir Alex Ferguson sought to include both Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie in attacking berths.

Kagawa carved a reputation as one of Europe's most creative forces when deployed in a central position during his seasons with Borussia Dortmund but believes it is important for him to learn to play in a variety of positions.

"I played behind the main striker at Dortmund, but I usually play on the left with Japan," Kagawa said, speaking to United Review.

"I should be flexible enough to play in a number of roles, so I am a more attractive player to the team and can contribute even more.

"Every day I am learning how to trouble my opponents on the left, how best to cause them problems with my movement. But I would still like to be capable of taking up more positions."

Given the inconsistent form of Luis Nani, Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young, Kagawa presents another wide option for Moyes, but the Scot seems intent on affording him more and more opportunities through the middle.

Kagawa has been handed chances to play his favoured number 10 role in a number of Champions League games this season with a handful coming in the Premier League. But with Rooney suspended and van Persie likely to be ruled out through injury for the visit of Newcastle United this weekend, the former Dortmund man is likely to be handed the role once again.

The playmaker endured a frustrating evening as United lost to Everton at Old Trafford mid-week thanks to an 86<sup>th minute goal from Bryan Oviedo. Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck may be called upon to fill the attacking void on Saturday, but having scored just three Premier League goals between them this season, Kagawa's creative influence could be key to Moyes' plan to rectifying Wednesday's defeat.