Marcus Rashford being "wrapped in cotton wool" by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Man Utd

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is wrapping Marcus Rashford in cotton wool because he's carrying Manchester United at the moment.

That's the opinion of Danny Murphy, who says the forward wouldn't have been best-pleased at being subbed off while on a brace in the Red Devils' 4-0 win over Norwich on the weekend.

United looked lacking in front of goal at the start of the season after selling Romelu Lukaku and failing to replace him.

But Rashford has stepped up to the plate in recent months, and has found the back of the net 19 times in all competitions this campaign.

Solskjaer is well aware of his importance to Man United, and Murphy believes this is why he was hooked against the Canaries.

"He's carrying this team, he's playing with a confidence and a strut - it's probably the best run of form he has ever had in a Manchester United shirt," Murphy said on BBC's Match of the Day.

Danny Murphy says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is wrapping Marcus Rashford in cotton wool (PA)

"What was impressive was his variation in play. He started on the left and ended up through the middle and down the right, and he's starting to make so many good chances for others as well as chances for himself.

"His passing was good, his strength is good, he holds the ball up well."

Harry Kane recently picked up an injury playing for Tottenham, and may still be out of action by the time the Euros come around.

Murphy is pleased with Rashford's form, and believes he's proving he'll be a brilliant alternative for England.

Murphy added: "Considering what's happened to Kane, and we don't know what's going to happen in the Euros, but we've got to keep this lad fit because he is playing with the confidence of someone who could be brilliant for England in the Euros.

Rashford opened the scoring in the first half against Norwich (PA)

"Nineteen goals in all competitions this season, he's firing shots in from everywhere. He's linking the play well as well, which I think is really important.

"He's not just causing problems in the final third, he's doing his bit when he's coming deep when his team is under a bit of pressure.

"Not sure he'll be pleased with his manager taking him off on a brace, but wrapping him in cotton wool is a good thing for England."