'I learned from Ruud van Nistelrooy this summer – I’m vying to be Man Utd's next striker'
Charlie McNeill is out to emulate the iconic Dutchman after an eye-catching campaign with United Under-23s
Charlie McNeill has revealed how former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy inspired him to be a prolific goalscorer.
McNeill, 19, has scored 22 goals for United Under-23s this season and is now pushing to break into the first-team squad.
He spent the summer training with Van Nistelrooy, who is now United’s Under-16s coach, and the Dutchman has had a major influence on his development.
“I learned so much from him in the summer,” said McNeill. "He taught me so much about scoring goals, about movement and about how to be a top striker.”
McNeill is now determined to follow in Van Nistelrooy’s footsteps and become a first-team regular at United.
“I’m vying to be the next striker for Manchester United,” he said. “I’m confident in my ability and I’m ready to make the step up.”
McNeill’s progress this season has been impressive. In addition to his 22 goals, he has also provided eight assists for United Under-23s.
He is now seen as one of the most promising young strikers in England and is likely to be given a chance to shine in the first-team next season.
McNeill’s emergence is a timely boost for United manager Erik ten Hag, who is looking to strengthen his attacking options.
Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season, while Anthony Martial has failed to impress on a consistent basis.
McNeill could be the solution to Ten Hag’s attacking problems and he is relishing the challenge of proving his worth.
