Sanchez will play big part in Champions League run: Vidic

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Bengaluru, January 26: Former Manchester United player Nemanja Vidic praise United's signing of Arsenal attacker Alexis Sanchez and says that the Chilean can be very influential in the current Champions League campaign.

United signed Sanchez from Arsenal, last week with Armenian playmaker Henrikh Mkhitaryan going the other way. Sanchez has been arguably one of the best players in Premier league since his arrival in England as he has scored 80 times in 165 games for the Gunners.

And according to Vidic, who won Champions League with United in 2007/08 season, the 29-year-old can be a big weapon in Red Devils' UCL campaign. United are due to face Sevilla next month in a two-legged tie in round of 16, first being an away trip to Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium.

Last season Arsenal failed to make it to a Champions League and managed only to gain Europa league this season, hence the player is eligible for United's Champions League squad and Vidic suggested he can not wait to witness the new man’s impact.

“I am excited, as well,” said Vidic, who was in Dubai to hand over the latest Adidas “Cold Blooded” boot pack to the city’s Adidas Tango League Captains.

“I think he is a player who has played in top clubs before, he has experience, won the trophies and played Champions League.

“It is a good signing for Man United. He brings something different into the team.

“I think we are now in a situation where we are focusing on the Champions League, as [Manchester] City are many points above Man United. Obviously, we never give up on the [Premier League] title, but I think the Champions League is realistic this season.

“I believe we can do a good job.

“As a club, when you want a player like Alexis Sanchez you do not think about City wanting him, Barcelona or someone. You want the player, as you think they can make the difference.

“I think Sanchez is the same. He can change the things for Manchester United, improve the team and help us grow.

“I am glad he signed. Now, we are waiting for him to start and help the team.”

The 29-year-old Sanchez has been handed the iconic number 7 shirt and could make his debut in United's FA Cup fixture against Yeovil Town after Mourinho confirmed the player is available for the match despite joining them just a few days back.