Comparing me and Rashford motivates me - Iheanacho

Kelechi Iheanacho has claimed that being compared to Manchester United prodigy Marcus Rashford acts as motivation for him to become a better player.

The Manchester City forward was one of the stars of the 2015-16 campaign, with the 19-year-old one of European football’s most prolific strikers in terms of goals per minute - leading to many mentioning him in the same breath as the Red Devils’ whiz.

A string of impressive performances has seen Iheanacho become a popular figure at Etihad Stadium, but feels the appraisals would make him a better player.

“I love a challenge so when people compare me and Rashford, it gives me more confidence and motivation. It also makes me work even harder,” he told club website.

“I hope people keep comparing us because if we can keep challenging each other in the coming years it could be great for Manchester. If we both keep doing well, improving and scoring lots of goals for the team it could be interesting.

“Rashford is a great young talent. He is big and strong and makes good decisions so I think he's going to be a really good player for United in the coming years.

“You can learn from every player so I've learned from Rashford as well this season and I wish him all the best in his career.

“Like all young players coming through for their clubs in this country, I hope they do well and continue to do well. Nobody knows what will happen in the future though.

“I don't know anyone who is playing who doesn't want to keep improving and be at the top level. I don't know if I'll end up being a top player or not.

“But I'll be working hard to achieve that and I wouldn't complain if it happened. I just have to keep going and see where it takes me,” he concluded.