Dimitar Berbatov has advised Mason Greenwood how he can thrive under Ralf Rangnick at Manchester United.
The young forward has impressed during Rangnick’s first week in charge at Old Trafford, having scored in brilliant fashion against Young Boys in the Champions League on Wednesday.
That goal furthered Greenwood’s case to be given the nod by his new manager in the league, having had to settle for a place on the bench in Rangnick’s first game in charge against Crystal Palace.
The 20-year-old is in the running to start against Norwich on Saturday, with his new manager clearly impressed by his showing in midweek after describing him as a “massive talent”.
And former United striker Berbatov, in his latest column for Betfair, believes Greenwood can grow under Rangnick’s guidance, but will have to knuckle down in order to keep impressing the German.
“It's great to see Mason Greenwood back on the scoresheet, it was a difficult goal to score and required imagination, good positioning and quick thinking,” Berbatov said.
“So, it was a great moment for him to score a goal like that in front of the new manager. I always admired and loved scoring goals like that, I love seeing players coming up with that imagination.
“Rangnick is right, Greenwood is a special talent and it's really pleasing to see him take his chances.
“He is a big part of the first team and I hope he gets more chances to shine under Rangnick, it's down to him to prove that he deserves a starting place because he has that quality, the talent is there.
“Rangnick will be very keen on discipline and Greenwood will have to work hard, but hopefully he can continue to grow under his guidance.
“Even though he could be more physical, I think Greenwood is doing great so far. He is a clever player, he knows when to get into challenges, when to push defenders hard in the one on ones, when to shoot and his left foot is so strong - most of the time he is hitting the target.
“While he is working on his physique he is still a clever player and he knows how to get the best out of himself even though he is up against really strong defenders.
“Rangnick clearly likes him and that will play in his favour, but I hope it isn't going to make him complacent, he needs to work even harder and prove that the manager isn't wrong and that he deserves his place in the team.
“It's always been like this at United and if you work hard and earn your place it will be given to you.”
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