The 18-year-old has made headlines after scoring four goals in his first two senior games for the club, with successive braces against FC Midtjylland and Arsenal.

It means that Van Gaal, whose side host Watford in the Premier League on Wednesday, will have a tough job leaving the teenager out, even as Anthony Martial nears a return to fitness after a recent hamstring injury.

United’s manager is concerned about the level of media attention that Rashford is facing, but is adamant that the striker is level-headed enough to deal with it.

“First, I think that the media have to let him in peace and rest,” Van Gaal told his pre-game press conference at United’s Carrington training base.

“You are in front of his house and that kind of stuff. I don’t think that is beneficial for a boy of 18. Give him time to be 18. We shall guide him in that way.

“I think he’s a very modest guy so I don’t think that will be a problem. When you have so much media attention, it can go another way, but I feel he can keep his feet on the ground.”

United have had a troubled season, but are on the up again after three successive victories across three competitions, and looking to revitalise their challenge for a Champions League place.