Mason Greenwood reminds me of Wayne Rooney, claims Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
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Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has claimed that watching Mason Greenwood score effortless goals reminds him of young Wayne Rooney. The 18-year-old Red Devils starlet was on target as he scored two goals for United as they finished top of Group L in the UEFA Europa League.
After the teenager inspired Manchester United's Europa League victory over AZ Alkmaar, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer compared Mason Greenwood to a young Wayne Rooney. The Red Devils overcome a sloppy start to secure a thumping win that secured the top spot in Group L and a place among the top seeds in the draw on Monday.
Greenwood was the star of the show at Old Trafford, where his fine, low strike was swiftly followed Ashley Young's second-half opener. The 18-year-old won the penalty converted by Juan Mata, before wrapping up with another stunning strike to complete a comprehensive 4-0 win, becoming the youngest player to score a brace for Manchester United in a major European competition.
“I've probably said it all before, so it's nothing new - that's what he does. And tomorrow he'll probably go in training and score a few more. He's always done it. That's just natural for him. He's a natural footballer but the closer he gets to goal, the more dangerous he is. Right foot, left foot - nightmare probably for defenders. He needs to develop his heading then he can be a proper striker,” said Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to Daily Mail.
The Norwegian claimed that Greenwood’s flair and abilities put him parallel to the young Wayne Rooney. Greenwood who turned 18 in October, recently signed a new contract with the Manchester club committing his future to his boyhood club until 2023. Solskjaer was quick to point out Greenwood is a different type of player to Rooney, but just like United's all-time top scorer, his potential was clear long before he turned 18.Â
“I've played with Wazza myself. Obviously natural finishing, he's one of the best I've seen. There was never any question of him going on loan. That decision was made early on in pre-season, or even towards end of last season. I knew we had got a top talent there and I think this club is the best at recognising that and, for me, developing talent like this. There's no better place for him to be than here,” concluded Solskjaer.
