Michael Carrick Hails Marcus Rashford's Fairytale Rise

 

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has described Marcus Rashford's debut season as a fairytale and backed the young striker to be an Old Trafford regular for years to come. As another season draws to a close, experienced passmaster Carrick says the Red Devils shoulnd't be celebrating, even if they manage to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Rashford's seven goals in 14 games have kept United within touching distance of the top four and guided them into the FA Cup final with the 18-year-old unexpectedly proving his worth to Louis van Gaal despite being in the early stages of his career.

He said “It's a little bit of a fairytale in a way, If you had asked Marcus, he would have probably wanted to get himself into the Under 21's on a regular basis and taken it step by step. But he got thrown in after Anthony injury and he has not looked back since. He seems to getting stronger, better and better, and he doesn't look out of place or as though he's going to be a quick fix.  He looks like he's got all the capabilities of being here for an awfully long time”

The Manchester-born product scored twice in that game and has gone from strength to strength since, also netting against Arsenal and local rivals Manchester City in the Premier League and West Ham United in the FA Cup but despite the young gun's heroics, United have still had an inconsistent season. 

Van Gaal's side are still just one place outside the top four and face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final on May 21. Carrick admits lifting the FA Cup at Wembley would be a good achievement - United last won the trophy in 2004 - but says qualifying for the Champions League will be no cause for a party.  The Red Devils continue their league campaign against Leicester City on Sunday knowing defeat will hand the Foxes the Premier League title.