Depay back: The winger says he will show his quality.
Memphis Depay has vowed to come good after a slow start to his Manchester United career.
The Dutchman joined the Red Devils in the summer in a £25million deal, but has flattered to deceive during his first few months at Old Trafford.
Depay has started 11 of United's 17 Premier League games to date, but has scored just two goals and has twice been hauled off at half-time in key games: against Liverpool at Old Trafford and away to Arsenal.
Louis van Gaal has admitted that he hoped for more from the Netherlands international, even if he remains a work in progress at 21 years old.
Depay, speaking with AD in his homeland, has admitted that he has yet to show his true ability in a red shirt, but says he will kick on because "failure just isn't an option".
"It's frustrating. I know I can do a lot better," he said.
"I just had to settle in and get used to the football in the Premier League, to my new life in England. Of course, you want everything to go smoothly, but sometimes that isn’t always realistic. But failure just isn't an option.
"I know when my performance is good or bad. What matters is to keep focusing on the positive.
"Work hard. Every day, I try to become a better player. Doing that, you don’t think about your transfer fee or wearing a legendary number."
Memphis Depay in action..
Depay says he has noticed a difference between the Eredivisie and the Premier League , particularly in the physicality of the game.
"The difference is enormous," he continued.
"Defenders are physically so strong, very fit and aren’t afraid of anything. That was new to me, especially during my first few games. I had to get used to it.
"[At PSV], it wasn't necessary to be on top of my game every match. When playing in the Premier League, you have to. You are pushed to get the most out of yourself. Good just isn’t enough when playing for United."
Depay in training.
The winger also says he is reaching peak fitness levels as he looks to show his best.
"My body-fat percentage is as low as ever," Depay said.
"It's pure muscle. And that's not because I’m pumping myself up at the gym, I never do that. During the first few months, I felt slightly slower when playing but now, and I put a lot of effort in training [on] my starting speed, I feel I'm improving. Getting better and better.
"Actually, in all perspectives, I'm way ahead of where I was three or four months ago. The only thing is now I have to show it on the pitch. Scoring goals and assisting my team-mates.
Depay in action against Watford.
"I have to think less about the moves I make. It feels more natural. The goal against Watford, but also the game against Club Brugge, I just know: there are many more to come. Mark my words. Don’t worry."
And his biggest aim? "Becoming the best player in the world. That's the ultimate goal - and I can cope with that. Believe me: that pressure will never crack me."
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