Harry Maguire makes huge Marcus Rashford prediction ahead of World Cup last 16

Harry Maguire has challenged Manchester United and England teammate Marcus Rashford to maximise his talent and become one of the best players in the world.

Rashford has struggled with injuries in recent months but was back to his best during the World Cup group stage, with a dazzling double in the 3-0 victory over Wales giving Gareth Southgate the best kind of headache heading into the last 16.

With fans now hopeful that Rashford can rediscover his best form in Qatar, Maguire has revealed just how highly he rates his teammate.

“I’m really pleased for Marcus,” Maguire told the press. “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.

“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.”

Asked whether he believes Rashford, who is tied at the top of the World Cup scoring charts on three goals, could win this winter’s Golden Boot, Maguire admitted it would be a ‘dream’ to see his teammate do so.

“I pray for that because that would probably mean we go very far in the tournament and give ourselves the best chance of winning,” he admitted.