Harry Maguire says he is rooting for Manchester United and England teammates Marcus Rashford to win the World Cup Golden Boot – and believes the forward can be one of the best footballers in the world.
Rashford is dominating the conversation around the Three Lions after his two goals against Wales, one a stunning free-kick and the other a fine solo goal.
There are calls for him to start for England in the last-16 clash against Senegal on Sunday, given he is currently joint top scorer at the tournament, despite only starting one game.
When asked about Rashford winning the Golden Boot, Maguire said: “That would be the dream. I pray for that because that would probably mean we go very far in the tournament and give ourselves the best chance of winning.
“I’m really pleased for Marcus. He has so much talent that I don’t think he’ll ever reach what his talent can get to. He’s so talented that he could be one of the best in the world and I think he should strive for that.”
Rashford struggled with injuries and consistency last season, but things have changed in this campaign and that has been reflected in his form for club and country.
Maguire added: “Over the last year or so, it’s not just Marcus at Manchester United – we had a difficult year as a group and it affects people as individuals. This year he’s playing with a lot more freedom and a big smile on his face. We speak about him getting back to his best and I’m sure he will do.
“We’ve seen it this year. He’s become a lot more consistent with his goals and assists and he affects games. That’s the biggest thing. He’s always a goal threat. He’s always having chances.
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“When chances are created in a game, a lot of them fall to him and that’s down to his movement and clever player. He’s a very talented boy and I’m pleased he’s back on track.”
Meanwhile, England manager Gareth Southgate outlined Rashford’s qualities and highlighted an ‘extraordinary’ shooting ability.
The United star’s free-kick was the first direct effort scored from a set-piece in Qatar.
Southgate told talkSPORT: “He’s playing with confidence, although all of our wide players are.
“He’s direct, the power of his shooting is extraordinary. If you spoke with any of the goalkeepers in our camp over the last five or six years, they would all comment on that.
“His ability to run in behind is also key. All of our attacking players have different attributes that compose a different problem for the opposition.
“Marcus’ are fairly apparent. But when people are looking at him, the great thing is he’s playing with a smile on his face and he’s got that confidence.”
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