Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Man Utd news: Why THIS Jose Mourinho signing helped Marcus Rashford - Danny Higginbotham
ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC’s spell at Manchester United helped, not hindered, Marcus Rashford’s career development, claims Danny Higginbotham.
Marcus Rashford shows off sharp skills in training
Higginbotham believes people are wrong to say Ibrahimovic had a negative effect on Rashford.
The Swedish striker joined Manchester United on a free transfer in the summer of 2016.
He scored 28 goals in 46 appearances in his first season at the club before a serious knee injury cut his campaign short.
Ibrahimovic being at the club meant Rashford had to settle for playing on the wing or as a substitute.
People said when Zlatan Ibrahimovic was there it was bad for Rashford, but I thought that was great for Rashford because he is still learning
But Higginbotham says the England international would have learnt from the legendary forward.
And, amid speculation over his future, Higginbotham believes Rashford should stay at United because it is the best place for him.
“Marcus Rashford came onto the scene at a young age and he has been unbelievable since,” Higginbotham told talkSPORT.
“A lot of people are now saying he needs to move because he needs to be playing more, but I think they forget that he’s still only 21.
“A lot of people have also said, ‘well he’s got to leave the club because it’s affecting his international career’, but he’s just equalled a 52-year record – he’s made 16 England appearances in a calendar year which is the joint most.
“People said when Zlatan Ibrahimovic was there it was bad for Rashford, but I thought that was great for Rashford because he is still learning.
“I think at times we forget his age because he started so young at Manchester United and we all think he’s older than he actually is.
“I do look at him and think there will be a frustration there but I don’t think there’s any need for him to move anywhere at the moment.
“He had been playing quite a few games for Manchester United this season, he is getting opportunities.
“I think he’s in the best place at the moment.
“He’s contracted until 2020, and I just think he needs to see where the land lies over the next season or so.”
Rashford and United are back in Premier League action this Saturday when Crystal Palace visit Old Trafford.