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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Steven Railston

Marcus Rashford is following in Wayne Rooney's Manchester United footsteps

When Manchester United require a moment of inspiration, more often than not Marcus Rashford rises to the occasion.

Since Rashford marked his debut with a goal five years ago, which then made him United's youngest ever scorer in European competition, he's established himself as an indispensable talent at Old Trafford.

Once again, Rashford is enjoying a remarkable season, and despite concerns over his fitness, he started in United's first-leg quarter-final clash against Granada last week, opening the scoring with a moment of individual brilliance.

When Victor Lindelof found Rashford from distance, he took the opportunity superbly, receiving the ball with ease before tucking it home past the Granada goalkeeper - it was simply an excellent goal in a game that was otherwise devoid of quality.

However, while that strike handed United the advantage they were searching for, it had greater personal importance for Rashford.

That goal in Spain made Rashford the first player to score 20+ goals in consecutive seasons for United in all competitions since Wayne Rooney in 2008/2009 and 2009/2010, an impressive achievement that certainly shouldn't be sniffed at.

It's important to remember that Rashford has evolved into a left-sided forward in recent seasons, and yet his contribution in front of goal hasn't suffered, with the 23-year-old consistently offering a dynamic threat from the flank.

Considering this, and that Rashford has battled through the pain barrier with various injuries this season, it's quite the achievement.

Rooney earned legendary status at United and it's not hyperbole to suggest Rashford is on that path, too.

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