The 25-year-old has found himself on the fringes at Old Trafford this season, having started just six games this term and being openly criticised by the Scot for making an error against Chelsea in the League Cup last week.

But Peseiro, who scouted Nani and promoted him from the youth setup during his time at Sporting Lisbon, insists the attacker can still perform at his imperious best with a warmer approach from his manager.

"Nani needs more, I think," Peseiro told The Independent. "I know him. If he doesn't play, it is not easy for him. He doesn't feel well when he doesn't play – because he likes to play.

"All players have different personalities. Sure, the English players don't need too much support, but the Portuguese, Brazilian and Spanish players need more emotional contact.

"Sir Alex Ferguson can't speak differently to him than to the others, but I know some players need more."

Peseiro said the United winger is one who relishes responsibility, suggesting the Portuguese is a different player when depended upon.

"I don't know if the coach has less confidence in him, or if he just doesn't feel right at this moment," he said.

"I know that after Ronaldo left Manchester, (Nani) had two or three fantastic seasons. Manchester depended on him.

"At this moment it isn't the same. But a player can only play at the maximum level when he's happy. If he's not happy, he can't."