Van Gaal: Rashford No Ronaldo

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says it is far too early to start comparing exciting youngster Marcus Rashford with club great and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 18-year-old Rashford has made a superb start to his United career, scoring another excellent goal during Wednesday's 2-1 FA Cup win at West Ham, to take his tally to six in 11 appearances.

And it was pointed out to Van Gaal at his Friday press conference that Ronaldo took 40 games to reach six United goals, before he became far more prolific during his later years at Old Trafford.

However, Van Gaal does not think the comparison holds water, pointing out that Ronaldo played in a different position during the first part of his United career.

"You compare apples with pears, I think," said Van Gaal. "I don't agree with what you want to suggest, we have to wait and see.

"Of course, it is fantastic what Marcus has done until now, but you cannot compare him with Ronaldo, who played other positions.

"He was not a striker at Manchester United, I believe, and you cannot compare."

Van Gaal also brushed off further speculation about his future at Old Trafford, refusing to discuss whether his success developing young players such as Rashford might improve his chances of remaining in charge.

"I don't discuss that with you," he said. "You can ask every time the same questions about what is happening with me. I don't discuss it with the media.

"The media is writing that, but that's your problem. I'm not discussing it."

Van Gaal did acknowledge that his team have been somewhat inconsistent this season but, with United through to an FA Cup semi-final and fifth in the table, he does not see any reason for despair.

"Consistency is very important, of course," he said. "The players and also the manager and the staff have been frustrated that we haven't been this season.

"There are circumstances that exist that make this situation. When you have to line up a different team because of injuries, it is difficult to do that.

"But we are still in the race for the top positions and the FA Cup, so I am very happy we can do that."

Ander Herrera is likely to swell the number of United's first-team absentees for the visit of Aston Villa on Saturday, as assessments continue on the foot injury he suffered at Upton Park.

But captain Wayne Rooney came off the bench for the final few moments of that match, having recovered from a knee injury, and is likely to feature again against Villa.

"He always wants to play," said Van Gaal. "Yes, I think he shall receive more minutes but it's always dependable on the game.

"You cannot say in advance that I give you 20 minutes or something like that. When it's possible, I shall do that, because we need Wayne in the team."

Credit: Skysports.com