Mason Greenwood is emulating Wayne Rooney's early Manchester United form, believes former Red Devil Andy Cole, who insists the youngster can surpass Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial.
The 18-year-old has surprised many with his progression in a standout breakout campaign, exceeding all expectations in claiming 18 goals in 47 appearances in all competitions.
The forward has overtaken summer signing Daniel James in the United starting line-up with his goal against Aston Villa earlier in July seeing him become the first teenager since Rooney to score in three consecutive games.
Rooney sits as United's all-time top scorer with 253 goals, and Cole believes Greenwood's form is "on the same level".
“[He is] a special talent; he’ll get better and better," Cole told The Athletic. "He scores with his left foot and right foot. He has the potential to surpass Marcus and Anthony.
"I’m not even sure if he’s that fast but 16 goals at 18 is incredible. When I was his age, I wasn’t close to Arsenal’s first team.
"This is Wazza [Wayne Rooney] level. He wasn’t even expected to be in the team this season.”
Cole also insisted Rashford is not a centre-forward, believing he needs to add consistency to his game before he joins the likes of Kylian Mbappe as the European elite.
“I like Marcus, but he’s not a centre-forward," he added. "He has to find consistency, which should come with age. Some players at his age already have it, like Mbappe.
“When Marcus is on form, like at [Crystal] Palace the other night, he can get that kind of goal. He’s good running at people when he’s confident.
"I want to see him be a little bit braver, too. He’s six foot. He’s got the attributes to dominate in the air.”
