‘Rashford would be the best player in the world if…’ – BBC pundit claims Man Utd star can become great by emulating teammate | OneFootball

BBC pundit Garth Crooks has showered praise on Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for his performance in the 2-2 draw against Bournemouth on Saturday.

Crooks claimed Marcus Rashford would be the best player in the world if he had the Portuguese midfielder’s attitude towards the game.

The 29-year-old twice drew the Red Devils level to ensure his side left Vitality Stadium with a point, and his performance stood out given the struggles of his teammates.

Rashford could not influence the proceedings despite his best efforts, and Crooks believes he is too talented not to be playing consistently at the level of a world-class star.

“Whatever you may think of Bruno Fernandes, he does give his heart and soul whenever he plays for Manchester United,” the BBC pundit wrote in his Team of the Week column.

“Bournemouth should and would have wrapped this game up but for the never-say-die attitude of Fernandes.

“Marcus Rashford would be the best player in the world if he had his captain’s appetite and attitude towards the game.

“I have been one of Rashford’s biggest fans over the years but he should be doing for United what Kylian Mbappe is doing for PSG (Paris Saint-Germain) right now, but somehow he seems to have lost the heart for the battle.

“Sure, he does his bit, but he’s far more talented than his recent performances suggest and seems to have lost his way. I’m amazed Fernandes or Casemiro haven’t been able to fire him up or inspire him.

“That said, if you need motivating whenever you put on the red shirt of Manchester United then something has gone terribly wrong.”

PSG were regularly linked with Rashford last summer after he ended 2022-23 with 30 goals across all competitions.

However, his return of eight goals in 39 games this term will not have impressed them and other prospective suitors.

The 26-year-old wants to remain with Man United and has committed his long-term future to the club, but his performances have been mediocre, with his general body language on the pitch leaving a lot to be desired.

Rashford could end up missing out on the England squad for the European Championship in June given his below-par displays, which would be such a shame given his enormous talent.

The Man United academy graduate must start doing better on and off the pitch, as the fault will be solely his if he fails to become the world-class player many people tipped him to become.