Scholes: Kagawa is perfect for United

Paul Scholes believes Shinji Kagawa's intelligence has allowed him to fit straight into the Manchester United team.

EmpicsShinji Kagawa celebrates after putting Manchester United into the lead

Kagawa, 23, joined from Borussia Dortmund, where he won back-to-back Bundesliga titles, and opened his United account in their 3-2 win over Fulham. "Shinji has been with us since the start of pre-season so he's had a good amount of time to settle in. He's a top class player who did great in Germany and we're lucky to have him," Scholes told the club's official website.

The Japan international has been playing just behind a sole striker, whether Wayne Rooney or Robin van Persie, and it is a role that the veteran Scholes knows well.

He often operated in a similar position in his younger years and said Kagawa's mobility and ability to find space enable him to remain constantly involved.

"Shinji is just a clever footballer who gets into those great positions where it's difficult for other teams to pick him up. He's always on the move which makes it easier for the midfielders to find him," Scholes explained.

"He really fits in with the way we play. It's important that he links up well with the midfielders and centre forwards and he's already shown he's clever enough to do that. He's very intelligent and someone we all enjoy playing with.

"You always like to see new players come in even if they're in your position because it's healthy for the team and exciting to play with the new players. We've got strength everywhere in the squad.

"We've struggled with injuries to defenders, but when we have everyone fit there are two teams that the manager has available to him that could compete in the Premier League and cup competitions.

"As players, we know when we get given our chance we have to take it. If you don't, you'll be out of the team, simple as that.''