“I think it’s difficult for any young player coming into a team that’s struggling playing multiple positions.
“So I think he’s done well, he’s had a breakthrough season but to expect him to get 15 goals, that’s unrealistic right now.”
Pereira’s future first-team chances may be harmed by after the arrival of Bruno Fernandes in January.
Portugal international Fernandes joined United from Sporting Lisbon for an initial fee of £46.6million.