Edinson Cavani explains what Manchester United's academy players need to succeed

Manchester United's Edinson Cavani has named 'consistency' as the most important trait for a long-lasting career in football.

Cavani signed a contract extension last year to stay at Old Trafford for another season. This campaign is set to be Cavani's last at the club, though remains a popular figure among supporters despite having been regularly sidelined with injury this term.

The 35-year-old is considered an outstanding option at centre-forward when fit and available and it's understood Cavani has been a positive influence around the club during his stay in Manchester, setting an example to the youngsters in training while also helping with advice. Cavani was recently asked about that advice and he gave away some of his secrets.

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When asked about his longevity, Cavani explained it's all about consistency, which is a valuable lesson for the club's youngsters.

"I think what has helped me in my career, to stay at the elite level of the game for many years, like other players and strikers from the past, is consistency," Cavani told United's in-house media. "What gives you that consistency is the way you approach your training and preparation and the need on many occasions to forego many other things in life. The things we forsake a lot of time as players.

"All those steps you take are what give you the chance to maintain a consistent level when you've made it to where you want to be.

"And to remain consistent and keep your levels high, the only thing to do is to always abide by what it was that took you to that level in the first place. So consistency is the key element here.

"My Dad always used to say to me as a kid, 'the