Roy Keane believes Jadon Sancho has had a 'huge week' at Manchester United after a slow start to his Old Trafford career that coincided with Cristiano Ronaldo 's return.
Sancho struggled to make any impact in limited roles under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before the Norwegian's sacking, despite sky high expectations following his big money transfer from Borussia Dortmund.
But the England international is now off the mark for the Red Devils after two goals in two games in Michael Carrick's interim tenure.
Sancho started in an unfamiliar attack alongside Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, but justified his selection by giving United the lead.
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The forward stole the ball from Jorginho before having the freedom of Stamford Bridge to slot cooly past Edouard Mendy.
Keane hit out at Sancho's critics last month, claiming he deserved a 'chance' and suggesting that he was perhaps overshadowed by the arrival of Ronaldo.
And the United great thinks his two goals will give him a huge boost to kick on under a new manager after a slow start at Old Trafford.
"I think he would’ve been annoyed at Rashford because he has time to think and maybe Rashford probably interfered with his decision-making but luckily enough the ‘keeper was in two minds he gives him a little shimmy right at the end," Keane said.
"It’s good for Sancho, he’s had a good week and for a young player coming to United this would be a huge week for him and a confidence boost for him."
Sancho's game time at Old Trafford has often been restricted due to the unexpected return of Ronaldo late in the summer transfer window.
But Carrick made the bold decision to drop Ronaldo to the bench against the European Champions in west London and Sancho was afforded the chance to shine against his boyhood club.
Incoming interim boss Ralf Rangnick now has the task of making the pair thrive in the same system.
And despite Sancho's strike, Keane could not fathom why five-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo did not start against the Blues because of his magnificent goal record.
"Ronaldo has not come back to Manchester United to sit on the bench. He is a world-class player," Keane added.
"His stats since he came back to the club are ok - he has got some goals and some assists.
"This idea that he is going to start closing people down? He's not.
"Sometimes you have to work around a superstar. I've played with players who don't do the bit you hope - the Cantonas of this world - but you forgive them because they score the winning goals in tight matches."
