The coach that helped guide Gary Neville through United's youth
ranks says the Reds have a long-term successor for the club
skipper.
Danny Simpson was impressive against Wigan Athletic on Saturday,
complimenting a solid defensive display with an assist for Wayne
Rooney, who capped off a 4-0 victory. The 20-year-old right-back
clearly has a promising future. However, Eric Harrison, who coached
the famed class of '92, says Neville will take some
displacing.
"If Gary stays clear of injuries then I see him playing past his
mid-30s," Harrison told the Manchester Evening News. "It's going to
be a big battle for Danny, but at least the manager knows he has
someone there with the potential and character to challenge
Gary."
In years to come, Harrison believes Simpson has the attributes to
make the grade at Old Trafford. "He is very similar to Gary in
attitude," added Eric. "Gary wasn't as naturally talented or
technically gifted as his contemporaries like David Beckham and
Paul Scholes, but he was captain at 16 because he was made of the
right stuff. He worked tirelessly on his game, grafting to become
better technically and he succeeded by hard work.
"Danny is the same. He was a decent player as a young kid but not
technically the best. But he listens, learns and it sinks in with
him. His improvement has been tremendous. I don't know whether the
coaches at United had question marks over him but when you see a
young player work hard, take things on board and progress like
Danny has you tick his box."
