UNITED SPECIAL Rashford following in Ron’s footsteps
MARCUS Rashford has earned comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo after helping England secure World Cup qualification.
The United forward has become a key part of Gareth Southgate’s plans – and an impressive performance in the 1-0 win against Slovenia on Thursday night prompted Martin Keown to suggest the 19-year-old can develop into a top central striker.
“All the best players – Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi – started as wingers at some point and Rashford just needs to drift a bit more central and express himself more coming off the touchline,” the former Arsenal defender said.
“I think he’ll be a top player, and they don’t stay fixed for too long out wide.
“Outside left should only be his starting position when it comes to the World Cup.”
Meanwhile, Rashford’s former United coach Ryan Giggs believes he has ‘everything.’
Speaking on ITV, the Welshman said: “His variety is very good. He can give that simple pass.
“If you’re a Slovenia fan you’d probably be saying ‘why don’t you get closer?’
“If you get closer he can run in behind and that’s where he can really hurt you.
“So he’s really got everything and the body positioning is really good.
“And he’s playing on the left, rightfooted, so he can go either side which he’s shown a couple of times as well.” WAYNE Rooney’s retirement from the England scene has created an unwanted vacancy for the next Three Lions talisman.
For a generation the former United captain bore the burden of being the country’s hope and glory. There was plenty of hope – but not much glory. And Rooney paid the price. Now Marcus Rashford is emerging as a serious candidate to taken on the Rooney mantle.
The Mancunian’s performance against Slovenia at Wembley was the only highlight of a soporific night as England sleepwalked to the World Cup.
The hype as Russia 2018 approaches will heighten. Already Ryan Giggs has praised the 19-year-old on TV and former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has compared him to Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Gareth Bale.
The spotlight on Rashford will only intensify.
That will fill United fans and Jose Mourinho with fear and trepidation. But there is some good news. Ex-Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson was always wary