Manchester United starlet pleads: Don't compare me to Ronaldo

Gabriel Obertan has pleaded with Manchester United fans not to expect him to be an instant replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

French winger Obertan was bought from Bordeaux for a knockdown price of £3million last summer in the wake of Ronaldo's world record £80m move to Real Madrid.

A spinal problem delayed Obertan's United debut but, in a handful of appearances, he has shown glimpses of the promise that made Sir Alex Ferguson swoop for him.

But the 20-year-old said it was unfair to compare him to Ronaldo and claimed that, just like the World Player of the Year, he must be given time to develop as a player.

"I'm not Ronaldo's successor," said Obertan. "I just try to be Gabriel Obertan. There's no comparison for now.

"I've only been here for six months and I can't do what he did in that time. But I want to do more. I've not scored yet, I've not made an assist.

"I've put in some good performances, but they've only been short appearances when I've come on as a substitute.

"I want to do more than that. I think I can do more. That's what I'm wishing for.

"I don't think I'm fully match-fit yet. I worked hard for four months, doing weights and running, and I think I'll be 100 per cent very soon." 

Despite United losing 1-0 to Besiktas on Wednesday and surrendering their 23-game unbeaten run at home in Europe, Obertan's display was one of the plus points for Fergie.

His pace, ability to run with the ball and willingness to take on opponents, allied to impressive delivery from wide positions, is reminiscent of Ronaldo in his early years at Old Trafford.

And Obertan is determined to seize the opportunity to go from raw recruit to world-class player at United, just like Ronaldo did during his six-year spell at Old Trafford.

"I really wanted to put in a good performance against Besiktas," said Obertan. "I wanted to score, to lay on an assist and be efficient.

"I think I'll have another chance and I will take it. I just want to be in the squad every game.

"It's better for me to play in England than France. The game here is quicker and I prefer that kind of game.

"The League Cup is a good opportunity for players who haven't played much and I hope I can take another chance if I play next week against Tottenham.

"I hope to play every game but, for me, even a few minutes in each game is a bonus.

"Patrice Evra has helped me a lot. He's always behind me, giving me advice. If I have a problem I can talk to him and sort it out. He's been very helpful.

"I just need some more match rhythm and the more I play the more that will come."

Fergie has been impressed with the way Obertan has settled in to life at United and predicted a bright future for the France Under-21 international.

"Gabriel has just arrived at the club and has only really got started in the past five weeks or so after a long spell out through injury," said Fergie.

"But all the signs are that he's making good progress."