Alexis Sanchez can overcome a testing start to his Manchester United career and follow in the footsteps of Eric Cantona, David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo as a great No. 7, says Bryan Robson.
The Chilean forward was handed an iconic shirt at Old Trafford following a high-profile move from Arsenal during the January transfer window.
He was considered to be a good fit for a jersey which boasts an illustrious history, with some iconic figures having gone before him.
Sanchez has struggled to put himself in a similar bracket so far, netting just three times in 21 appearances to date, but time is still on his side.
Robson believes the 29-year-old will come good, with the former Barcelona star too good a player to flop for the Red Devils.
The ex-United captain, who graced the No. 7 jersey himself during an illustrious playing career, told the Manchester Evening News: “I just picked it as it was a lucky number when at West Brom.
“I asked Steve Coppell if I could wear it [at United].
“After me when Eric wanted it, then Becks, Ronaldo, we have had some fantastic players who have played as No. 7.
Getty“I think Sanchez can get up there with them.
“For me, he is a top player.
“He has a winning mentality, works hard for the team and has great ability.”
It was hoped that a summer without World Cup commitments would allow Sanchez to hit the ground running in 2018-19.
He has offered glimpses of what he is capable of, but United are still waiting for him to burst into life.
Another rest period has been offered by Chile during the current international break, with Jose Mourinho determined to bring the best out of a player who was considered to be quite a coup for the Red Devils.
His next chance to find some form will come at Watford on Saturday when United return to Premier League action.