'Get out of there!' - Gabby Agbonlahor insists Marcus Rashford had to leave 'negative' Manchester United to succeed

Speaking on talkSPORT, former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor argued that Marcus Rashford needed to leave United in order to thrive again. The England international sealed a loan move to Villa Park in January and has gone on to score three goals and register four assists in 11 games in the Midlands.

The England international had endured a difficult 18 months prior to his move, struggling for form and confidence. Last season, he was limited to just eight goals and five assists at United, and Agbonlahor believes he is just the latest example of a player who had to leave United to rediscover their best form.

Agbonlahor said: “I said ages ago… that (Rashford) needs an arm around the shoulder."

He added: “How many players are we talking about now? That leave Manchester United and get better – look at (Angel) Di Maria. He’s left Manchester United and gone to be a better player, exactly as it’s happening now.

"Maybe the key to a top career at the moment is if you're stuck at Man United, get out of the negative club. Everything about the club is negative. Rashford’s free and is enjoying his time at Aston Villa.”

Rashford is expected to lead the line for Villa once again this weekend as they take on Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Emery’s side are still in the hunt for European qualification, and are just three points behind fourth-placed Manchester City.