Former Man Utd star, 37, has nightmare home debut on emotional return for third-tier boyhood club as he misses penalty

ANDER HERRERA suffered a nightmare home debut during his emotional return to his former club. The ex-Manchester United star re-united with his boyhood side Real Zaragoza in August in a bid to help them out of the Spanish third tier. Ander Herrera’s home debut did not go to plan Credit: Getty The former Manchester United star missed a penalty in the 1-0 win Credit: Getty The 37-year-old even refused to take a wage from the club, electing to play for free as a favour to the club where his career.began But his fairy-tale homecoming could certainly have gone smoother. Sign up for the Man United newsletter Thank you! The midfielder’s first appearance back came last week, when he started as captain in a 2-0 loss to Gimnastic. But on Saturday, the former Paris Saint-Germain star, who also spent five years at Old Trafford between 2014-19, had the chance to help get the side back on track. Zaragoza welcomed Antequera to their temporary home, the Ibercaja Estadio, where the side play their matches as their original stadium is rebuilt into a 43,000-seater arena. The fixture was locked at a goalless stalemate heading into the second half, but Zaragoza thought they had finally found the breakthrough when they were awarded a penalty in the 67th minute. Captain Herrera stepped up to take the spot kick for a chance to welcome himself back home in style. But Antequera stopper Dani Alcover managed to save his effort, spoiling what could have been a magical moment for the local star. Most read in Sport CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS Herrera began his career with Zaragoza, and is now playing there for free Credit: Getty Images – Getty Thankfully he was spared his blushes by an equally special intervention from Edu Espiau, who turned home an effort in the 91st minute to steal all three points for his side. It was exactly the sort of feeling Herrera had hoped for after joining the club from Argentinian giants Boca Juniors. He explained after arriving: “I don’t need a contract. I had a very successful career and I have taken care of my money. “And I can give this present to myself to help my club for free, in a difficult moment. “It’s something that makes me feel so proud. To be able to be here just to help.” Comment now