Shinji Kagawa praised for declining Man Utd's iconic No. 7 shirt

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by Crunch Sports Staff

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Shinji Kagawa (credit: STR/AFP/GettyImages)

Manchester United legend Bryan Robson believes new signing Shinji Kagawa made the right decision to decline the club's iconic No.7 shirt.

Kagawa joined United last month in a £13million deal and was given the chance to wear the shirt vacated by Michael Owen, but insisted he had "no intention to get a 'big' number" and will wear the No. 26 shirt next season.

Antonio Valencia will instead wear the famous shirt, and former No. 7 Robson believes Kagawa's decision says a lot about his character.

Speaking to the club's official website, Robson said: "Straight away that makes him seem like a good, honest lad. For him to say that rather than put the No.7 shirt on, proves he must be a down-to-earth lad.

"One thing you get with Japanese boys is they’re very hard working and conscientious about the job."

Robson also believes the 23-year-old has the versatility to play anywhere next season.

"I think the boss will be looking at where he does play him out there on tour," he added.

"He’s got a good option now and can play Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck up top but can also now play Wayne [Rooney] up there if he really wants to and Shinji can play in behind him.

"From what I’ve seen and been told about him, he can play in numerous positions and won’t let you down. He can do a good, hard, workmanlike job for you.

"Versatility has always been important for the boss. He has a few players who can play in different positions.

"Look at his last few signings – even at the back, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling can play centre-half or right-back. Phil can also fill in to midfield as well so the boss likes players who have got that flexibility where they can balance a team."

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