Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has thrown his weight behind Marcus Rashford and believes the forward can still thrive at Old Trafford.
Ferdinand met Rashford in the United training camp in the Republic of Ireland and was immediately impressed by what he saw.
He said on X: “Rashford is back at Manchester United at the training ground. He’s like a purring Ferrari.
“He looks fit, he looks ready. And do you know what, there’s a smile on his face and there’s a little spring in his step.
“I hope he stays and he will be like a new signing at the football club.”
Rashford had been expected to leave United permanently this summer after enjoying a productive loan spell at Barcelona.
However, the Catalan giants opted against triggering the £26 million release clause included in the loan agreement.
The 28-year-old could still head for the Old Trafford exit, but INEOS are adamant that they will only sanction a permanent sale.
He is currently pocketing a staggering £325,000 per week. This is a huge concern for the club hierarchy as they aim to reduce the wage bill.
Only a handful of European clubs are likely to have the financial muscle to match his enormous salary.
Rashford is reportedly excited about the prospect of working under manager Michael Carrick.
The duo played together under Louis van Gaal.
Carrick later continued his coaching career under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, giving him further insight into Rashford’s development.
When firing on all cylinders, Rashford has the quality to become United’s most dangerous attacking weapon.
However, the forward must rediscover consistency in both his attacking output and defensive work rate if he wants to revive his Old Trafford career.
Ferdinand has now painted an encouraging picture of Rashford’s return, but the ultimate responsibility rests with the player to turn that optimism into performances for his boyhood club.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
