Striker Wout Weghorst admits that he is "incredibly proud and happy" by the number of games he's played since joining Manchester United in January.
The Netherlands international, 30, was drafted in on loan for the remainder of the season from Championship leaders Burnley, as United pursued a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. He was on loan at Besiktas when the Reds registered their interest, a deal that was supposed to keep him in Turkey for the full season.
Despite United's interest in his signature generating an overriding feeling of surprise, Weghorst has become a permanent fixture in manager Erik ten Hag's plans. He has started all of the 18 matches he has been available for since joining the club but has scored a paltry two goals.
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Nevertheless, Anthony Martial's unavailability through injury has meant that Ten Hag has been reliant on his fellow countryman. Weghorst has now hinted that he has played a lot more frequently than he expected, though he admits he has been helped by Martial's injury woes.
Weghorst, as quoted by the Mirror, said: "All Ten Hag said was that he needed a striker who could fit into his way of playing. He certainly did not paint the picture as it is now.
"Martial was his striker and he was doing fine - but he is injury-prone and the manager wanted all positions double-staffed. That's what I came for.
"But Ten Hag did say clearly, 'it is up to you. You can force things and the best one plays'. My dream has always been to get the most out of my career. To tap my ceiling. It makes me incredibly proud and happy."
Although Weghorst has struggled to score goals in United colours, he has offered a never-say-die attitude and a constant willingness to run and fight for the team. And it is his physical condition that he prides himself on.
"My physique is like a house and has been all through my career," continued the Netherlands international. "But I have never had an injury and never even had to miss a single match. It's bizarre, really.
"What I always say: a lot is also determined in the head. At this level, you can no longer start every game fully recovered. So it also requires a lot of mental strength and mental resilience."
On his lack of goals, Weghorst added: "Sometimes I think I am doing really well - but then I remember I am still only on two goals.
"That's also how everyone looks at football. I try to teach my children to look at other aspects than just goals - and that works for me as well."
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