Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa vows to build strength, conceding: 'I'm not the tallest or biggest player'

The Japan international has struggled to make an impact following his switch from Borussia Dortmund

Shinji Kagawa has been on the periphery of the Manchester United squad this season (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa believes he needs to get stronger to make a greater impact in England.

The former Borussia Dortmund playmaker has struggled to establish himself at Old Trafford but earned praise for his display against Swansea last weekend.

The Japan international was moved into a central position for the second half and excelled as United struck twice to claim a morale-boosting 2-0 win in the Barclays Premier League.

There has been debate about the 24-year-old's future but the player himself feels he knows where to improve.

Kagawa told ManUtd.jp: "I think I can still improve my strength.

"I'm not the tallest or biggest player, so I have to move my body more.

"Smaller players in the Premier League are very good at using their bodies (to get past the opposition) and that's what I will continue to do.

"I realise the Premier League is a very tough league and I know I have to be stronger."

PA