Cavani storms in to protect Greenwood as he is confronted by Roma defenders

Edinson Cavani was goalscorer turned bodyguard on Thursday, after storming in to defend team-mate Mason Greenwood from a bust-up with Roma defenders.

The Uruguayan struck twice in the Italian capital as Manchester United booked their spot in the Europa League final, despite losing 3-2 on the night.

The 34-year-old has proved many doubters wrong by bagging 14 goals so far this season, and though his future at Old Trafford is uncertain he demonstrated his commitment to the United cause by backing-up a young team-mate.

At a break in play Greenwood and Gianluca Mancini clashed by the corner flag, bumping into each other as they argued.

Rick Karsdorp waded-in next to shove Greenwood, and Cavani was incensed. The pumped-up scorer charged in to shove the right-back away, and took on Mancini while he was at it.

Greenwood has already admitted he's been learning from the former PSG star on the training ground, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be delighted with the effect Cavani is having in the camp.

'Anyone can learn from him – whether it is a young player or an older player,' Greenwood said.

'He has just come here and set an example, really. I like the things he does so I obviously pick up on the little things he does.

'I watch him in training and always have an eye on him, to see what movements he does, so I can add it to my game. So it is a big benefit that he is here at the club, I think.

'You can see the two goals he scored against Southampton (in November) were just unbelievable. It was stuff he has been doing for 10 to 15 years at PSG and at Napoli as well, so he is a good footballer.'

Cavani's double on Saturday ensured United cruised into the Europa League final, where they will face Villarreal.