Ahead of England’s second World Cup game against Panama, legendary former Manchester United captain has sung the praises of two of the club’s academy graduates in the squad. Jesse Lingard started the opening game against Tunisia and Marcus Rashford came on as a sub. The latter is set to start in Sunday’s game in place of Raheem Sterling.

Robson claims that both players have their feet firmly on the ground and are set to do well for club and country.

When I talk to the likes of Nicky Butt at United he says Jesse is a level-headed kid. He comes across as bubbly and lively but he’s respectful, not some irritant. He has learnt from people like Giggs and David Beckham about what is required from you when you’re a United player and there are certain demands of you. He doesn’t moan about it, he accepts the importance of supporters and sponsors. Fans connect with that. Marcus Rashford is the same.

I was at a United event with Marcus and there were a lot of questions about flash footballers buying flash cars. I asked Marcus what he’d bought and he said a Mercedes. I thought, that’s good enough for me. A good car, not a flash Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche. He’s another who may have got his chance by fortune but deserves his place.

We have seen young strikers come in and do well at United, only to disappear, but Marcus had that special something that made you believe he was here to stay and I think he’ll be with United and England for years to come.

Rashford’s understanding of the forward position has been helped by the fact he started out as a winger and he fits perfectly into Southgate’s system.

He’s a strong kid and I am sure he will cause Panama and others a lot of problems.