Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Ander Herrera reveals current Man Utd star, not named Ronaldo, who can become a club legend

Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes and Scott McTominay

Ander Herrera believes striker Marcus Rashford can become ‘one of the biggest players’ in the history of Manchester United, who could be set for a major upturn under Erik ten Hag.

Having come through the youth ranks at Old Trafford, Rashford has been a mainstay in the United team since 2016, scoring 98 goals for the club during that time.

But after a difficult time last season under first Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and then Ralf Rangnick, the England forward has been back to his best this term.

Indeed, Rashford has scored five goals and added three assists in 10 appearances in all competitions.

And former United midfielder Herrera thinks his old teammate has everything in his locker to become a legend of the club.

The Spaniard told ESPN: “Marcus makes a big difference when he’s fit and when he’s in a good moment. And he has now the best teacher in the team, with the best example, with Cristiano.

“So, of course [he can be a key player], but sometimes we are not fair with some players. We are not fair with Marcus or – I could give you more examples – with Vinicius [Junior] or with these kind of players.

“You cannot compare them with [Lionel] Messi and Cristiano because it’s like if the Spanish midfielders, we are compared with Xavi [Hernandez] and [Andres] Iniesta. We are going to lose [that comparison], of course.

“But you have to judge them individually. Marcus can be a fantastic player for Manchester United. He is, in fact, he has done some amazing things at the club.

“You cannot ask him to do what Cristiano has done during his career because that wouldn’t be fair.

“Marcus has everything to become one of the biggest Manchester United players in history. He is back at his best, he is scoring and helping the team and as a United fan I’m happy.”

Man Utd tipped to challenge again

Despite losing their opening two games of the new campaign, United have now won seven or their last nine in all competitions.

And having gone five years without a trophy, Herrera believes that success is just around the corner under Ten Hag.

He added: “I follow all the games and I’m still in contact with some players. I want them to win every single game and I’m optimistic.

“Even in the bad moments I remain optimistic because of the fans and how big the club is. They’ve had a few years without trophies but things take time.

“Liverpool were a long time without trophies and now they are back and doing great. I’m sure United will do the same and it won’t take 30 years, I’m sure.”

United are back in Premier League action on Sunday when they host Newcastle at Old Trafford.

READ MORE: Man Utd in for ‘shock’, as Paul Merson predicts Newcastle masterclass will ruin Ten Hag progress