Jamie Carragher has claimed that Manchester United sensation Marcus Rashford would be named his player of the season instead of cross-city rival Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian enjoyed an electric start to life at the Etihad Stadium following a summer move from Borussia Dortmund. He already has 32 goals to his name in all competitions this term - 26 of which have come in the Premier League.
That record would have seen Haaland win the Golden Boot in each of the last four campaigns. Despite that eye-watering haul, Carragher has claimed that the Man City striker would no longer be his pick for the Player of the Year Award.
Instead, he has claimed that Manchester United striker Rashford would be more worthy of the award. The Red Devils’ star is currently in the midst of the most-prolific season of his career with 24 goals to his name in all competitions.
Writing in The Telegraph, Carragher said: “Step aside Erling Haaland. Marcus Rashford is currently producing performances of a complete Premier League striker.
“If votes were being cast this week, the Manchester United attacker would surely command most support from his peers. Haaland hit the ground running after joining Manchester City and remains on course for the golden boot.
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“Rashford’s form under Erik ten Hag is taking his game to that next level. His all-round displays this season are superior to Haaland’s because United are set-up to get the most from him.”
Away from his goals, Rashford has actually managed to out-perform Haaland when it comes to assists. The 51-time England international has managed to tee up his teammates on nine occasions this term, whilst Haaland only has four assists.
Carragher has claimed that his reason for putting the Man United striker ahead of the Norwegian is that understanding with his teammates. He suggested that whilst Haaland's quality as a goalscorer cannot be doubted, the Norwegian "has yet to work out how to maximise every facet of his game".
Meanwhile, the Liverpool icon continued to claim that when he does not get on the scoresheet, Haaland struggles to have an impact on the game, whereas Rashford is a constant threat. He also hailed the Man United striker for the way he is able to combine with his new teammates - an aspect that Haaland has struggled with.
He added: “Rashford has made over 200 more passes over the course of 24 Premier League appearances than Haaland in his 23, highlighting the difference in how they connect with their teammates."
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