Speaking at the launch of Ladbrokes' "Gaffer of All Accas," former Premier League manager Tim Sherwood shared his insights on Manchester United's new manager, Ruben Amorim, and the potential he sees within the squad.
Sherwood believes that Amorim's arrival presents a unique opportunity for players to flourish, notably highlighting Marcus Rashford as a key figure who could evolve into a superstar.
He stated:
There are two names in particular I'm excited about working with, if I'm Ruben Amorim, and one will be a big surprise to people... Amorim has got an opportunity here, to spark someone into life, and I think he will... and that's Marcus Rashford. I've said it before, but I think Marcus Rashford has the tools to play for the best teams in world football... if I'm Ruben Amorim, going in, and assessing that team, I'd be looking at him as a project. I think he could make Marcus a superstar.
Sherwood acknowledged Rashford's immense talent but pointed out the inconsistencies that have plagued his performances in recent seasons.
He emphasised that with the right guidance from Amorim, Rashford could harness his potential and become a more reliable player:
A lot will depend on what's going on between his ears, but I think that if Marcus Rashford can work, and get a chemistry with Ruben Amorim, we could end up with a completely different player to the one we've seen in recent years.
In addition to Rashford, Sherwood expressed his enthusiasm for Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes, suggesting they could also thrive under Amorim's leadership.
However, he underscored the necessity for United to bolster their attacking options, advocating for the signing of Viktor Gyokeres:
Viktor Gyokeres, for me, is a must. I mean, he's a player who knows English football, albeit in the Championship, but he's been a revelation in Portugal, we've seen him ripping it up in the Champions League. And, above everything else, they need a striker, don't they?
Sherwood's comments reflect a broader sentiment about the current state of Manchester United.
He believes that Amorim's appointment could be one of the most exciting moves the club has made since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure.
He remarked on Amorim's youthful energy and innovative approach to management:
I think Ruben Amorim could be the most exciting move Man United have made since Sir Alex Ferguson left the club. The reason I say that is because he's young... he's got life... you know, he's only just started what he's doing but he's already used to success.
Sherwood is optimistic about Amorim's potential to instil a clear playing identity at United, a crucial aspect that fans have been craving.
He noted that while there may be challenges ahead, including the need to reshape the squad, the foundations for success are being laid:
Man United fans, between now and the end of the season, want to see a playing identity. They're going to win some, and they're going to lose some; a level of consistency is impossible at this moment in time.
Ultimately, Sherwood's insights present a cautiously optimistic outlook for Manchester United under Ruben Amorim.
With the right support and strategic signings, there is a belief that the club can navigate its current challenges and begin to see the emergence of players who can elevate the team back to its former glory.
The coming months will be crucial as Amorim looks to implement his vision and ignite the potential within his squad.
