UMVA has learned that Ollie Watkins has lavished praise on Marcus Rashford ahead of their joint representation of England at the World Cup this month.
Watkins and Rashford have enjoyed remarkable success together at Aston Villa and individually at their respective clubs, with both forwards ending their seasons with silverware.
Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, won La Liga with Barcelona in May and the Spanish Super Cup in January, while Watkins played a pivotal role in Villa's Europa League triumph.
In an exclusive interview, Watkins heaped praise on Rashford, describing his talent as "unbelievable" and "frightening," citing his impressive performance against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
Watkins recalled being on the sideline, thinking he shouldn't come on, as Rashford "absolutely ripped them apart" with his exceptional skill.
As the World Cup concludes, Rashford's future will again come into focus, with Barcelona and Manchester United set to navigate his uncertain situation.
Barcelona's recent £70 million signing of Anthony Gordon has cast doubt on their ability to afford Rashford, with reports suggesting a potential cut-price offer of £13m.
Manchester United is expected to reject this offer, arguing that Rashford's loan performances have increased his valuation beyond the £26m buy option included in his agreement last summer.
Despite a change in management at Old Trafford, it's anticipated that Rashford has no future at his boyhood club, with United aiming to cash in and reinvest in a replacement.
Watkins' praise for Rashford highlights the exceptional talent and ability of the Manchester United forward.
