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.
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"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.”