'Very bright future' - Wayne Rooney compares Man Utd star to World Cup and Champions League winner

Wayne Rooney believes prodigy Kobbie Mainoo draws parallels to former Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger.

While United fans never saw the best of the German, he is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. Eight Bundesliga titles, a World Cup and a Champions League triumph ranks his trophy cabinet among the very best to have played the game.

Rooney captained Schweinsteiger during the latter years of his career where he only made 35 appearances for the Red Devils. In truth, his better days are behind him but football fans remember the now 39-year-old as a midfield maestro who led his country to glory.

After just 15 Premier League appearances, Man United legend Rooney has seen enough to liken Mainoo to his former teammate. The youngster has enjoyed a breakout campaign at Old Trafford, starting each of the last 12 top-flight games.

Mainoo’s emergence has provided a rare highlight in what is an otherwise underwhelming campaign under Erik ten Hag. There has already been talk about a potential England call-up when Gareth Southgate names his squad next week.

Born in Stockport, less than half an hour away from Old Trafford, the 18-year-old is living the dream and could potentially save United fortunes in the transfer market. Red Devils great Rooney hailed the youngster ahead of the 2-0 win over Everton.

“I think he's incredible for such a young age, with the maturity he's shown,” the club’s all-time leading goalscorer told TNT Sports. When you see any young players come into the first team they're normally a bit raw or play off the cuff.

“He reminds me of a young Bastian Schweinsteiger with how he plays and he always seems to make the right decisions. He has a very bright future.”