Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven singles out 'top class' Manchester United player he faced

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven insists Marcus Rashford remains a 'top class' player despite Manchester United's recent struggles.

Rashford has just one goal this season and has come under increasing pressure due to poor performances. On more than one occasion, Erik ten Hag has substituted last season's top goalscorer with his side chasing goals and fans have grown frustrated with his poor form.

Due to a number of early-season fitness issues elsewhere - namely Rasmus Hojlund's absence - Rashford was deployed at No.9 for the trip to Tottenham in the second week of the season. He was largely ineffective in a 2-0 defeat but Spurs centre-back Van de Ven believes the quality is still there.

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“To be honest, in the home game against Man United, Rashford for me is a top player,” Van de Ven told Sky Sports. “Rashford for me is a real top class player.

"Man United aren’t doing that well in the league, but if you see the quality of Rashford, every second of the game he can do this and he can make the goal. He’s so strong with the ball and without the ball, for me, he is a top-class player.”

Rashford was moved back out to the wing after that defeat against Tottenham, with Anthony Martial filling the gap until Hojlund's return against Arsenal. Despite that, the Reds forward has continued to struggle.

On Friday, he was criticised by Ten Hag after being spotted celebrating his birthday in a nightclub on the evening of last weekend's 3-0 loss against Manchester City. The manager said Rashford's decision to go out was 'unacceptable' but he had apologised.