Manchester United have been “unfair” to Marcus Rashford by hoping he can carry them, claims Liverpool legend Steve Nicol.
Rashford was the only recognised senior striker in the United squad heading into this season.
That is largely because Romelu Lukaku left for Inter Milan in the summer and was not replaced.
However, Rashford has only scored one goal from open play in all competitions so far this season.
And Nicol does not think the 21-year-old is ready to have as much pressure as he has got on his shoulders.
“Is he really in a stage of his career where he’s carrying Manchester United?” he said on ESPN FC.
“I think that’s unfair, because that’s what he’s doing right now.
“He’s supposed to score goals, make runs, check back in, defend when he can.
“He’s been asked to carry Manchester United, certainly as an attacking force.
“Is he really ready for that? I don’t think he is. I think it’s unfair to put that on him right now.”
Meanwhile, former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley believes Rashford is playing through the pain barrier.
The England ace played in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal on Monday despite being a major doubt with a groin injury.
“He’s definitely not right, at the moment,” Burley said.
“He just doesn’t look 100 per cent fit. When you’re not 100 per cent you don’t do the things that you normally do, that starts to affect your confidence.
“He took a bad touch for the good chance he had in the first half [against Arsenal] and he took too long.
“Marcus Rashford at his super best would have had that out of his feet and fired the shot away.”
United are in Europa League action on Thursday when they visit Dutch side AZ Alkmaar (5.55pm).
