5 most underrated Manchester United players in the 21st century 

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace - The Emirates FA Cup Final
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace - The Emirates FA Cup Final

#3 Darren Fletcher

Darren Fletcher
Darren Fletcher

Next up, we have another Manchester United academy graduate, Darren Fletcher. After a difficult start with the first team, Fletcher slowly earned his place in Sir Alex Ferguson’s starting XI.

The Scot was promoted to the Manchester United first team in 2003 but took time to adjust to the demands of Premier League football. But thanks to his hard work, Fletcher turned things around and put on solid performances, which made him a fixture in the Manchester United midfield.

Fletcher was in the mould of players like Michael Carrick, and Sir Alex Ferguson trusted his compatriot to marshall the Manchester United midfield. In the club's star-studded midfield, Fletcher was an assured presence. But it’s often easy to forget the massive role he played, especially in big games for the club.

However, the former West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City midfielder was constantly hampered by injuries throughout his stint at Manchester United, which inhibited his career progression.

In 13 seasons at Old Trafford, Fletcher represented the Red Devils on 342 occasions, winning five Premier League titles, one Champions League and two league cups, among various honours.


#2 Michael Carrick

Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick

Michael Carrick was the most underrated Premier League player of his generation - excelling in his role as a holding midfielder under Sir Alex Ferguson.

He earned belated recognition from the Manchester United faithful, thanks to his enormous performances in the unglamorous holding midfielder role. Carrick was a crucial part of Manchester United’s XI in three consecutive Premier League title triumphs and also won the Champions League in his first three seasons at the club.

Michael Carrick spent the better part of his career at England’s most successful club, making 464 appearances. The Englishman, widely regarded as a Manchester United legend, is now associated with the club in a coaching role after his retirement.


#1 Park Ji-Sung

Park Ji-Sung
Park Ji-Sung

Park Ji-Sung was exceptional for Manchester United, for whom he was a key player under Sir Alex Ferguson in the 2000s.

The South Korean is arguably Manchester United’s greatest unsung hero, who never got any recognition and plaudits he deserved. He was one of Manchester United’s most dependable players, providing support to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Carlos Tevez.

Initially considered to be a commercial signing, Ji-Sung proved his doubters wrong, as he showcased his tremendous quality over time. Moreover, the South Korean was a workhorse and always gave his 100%.

Park Ji-Sung, only the second Asian player to represent Manchester United, made 207 appearances for the club, scoring 28 goals and providing 29 assists.

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