Marcus Rashford was only 11 years old but already had become a ‘mini-superstar’ in Wythenshawe destined for Premier League acclaim.The teenager has enjoyed a scintillating week, scoring four goals in his first two starts as a Manchester United player and smashing records in the process.That prowess was evident years previous when Rashford - a quiet, unassuming character - began going along on his bike to the club’s Street Reds foundation programme, which he still visits today to catch up with old friends.
Foundation coach Dave Chapman was one of the first to come across the 18-year-old striker in south Manchester.
‘You could see from the beginning that there was something there,’ he said.
‘At this point, he was already involved with the Manchester United Academy but we weren’t aware; he never mentioned it, he just turned up to play.
‘You see players who play for clubs at the weekends and they turn up to evening sessions and just watch because they don’t want to get injured but Marcus was always fully involved.
‘He wasn’t one for standing on the side and watching, the lure of the game was too much for him.
‘In the eyes of his fellow participants he became a mini-superstar. They all wanted him on their five-a-side teams and it caused a few arguments when they were all trying to pick him, but it didn’t affect him.’Rashford has become an overnight sensation, now with the added burden of role model status. Yet he has always retained leadership qualities according to Chapman.
Street Reds promotes learning in a football environment, with the foundation helping kids work towards future qualifications. The scheme is designed for youngsters exactly like Rashford across the city.
 |
| Manchester United starlet Marcus Rashford poses with the Premier League trophy as a youngster |
 |
| Rashford (centre, third from right) pictured as a six-year-old before going on to become a professional player |
No comments:
Post a Comment