Keane brands Rashford almost impossible to stop and 'a nightmare for defenders'

Roy Keane heaped praise on Marcus Rashford for his performance in a losing cause against Manchester City for Aston Villa on Tuesday night.

Rashford equalised for Unai Emery's side from the spot, hit the post and had numerous other chances as he delivered one of his best displays for his loan club, who conceded late on to lose 2-1.

Matheus Nunes came up with the winner, just when it looked as though Rashford and Co had earned a valuable point in their chase for a top five spot.

And in the Sky Sports studio, Man United legend Keane was full of praise for the 27-year-old forward.

The Irishman said: 'He was a threat tonight, he had a really big chance in the second half but when there is grass in front of him he is as good as any player.

'Ask the defenders, he is a nightmare. It is almost impossible to stop.'

Keane's point about Rashford being able to make runs into space is a pertinent one, with the Englishman often seeming less effective against a low block.

But he has recaptured his form away from Man United, who have struggled to score goals themselves in recent weeks.

He has four goals and six assists in all competitions for Emery's side so far and been favoured over Ollie Watkins in recent games.

Villa have the option to sign Rashford permanently for £40million this summer but are understood to still be undecided over triggering the clause.

The club are now seventh, two points off fifth but having played a game more.

Keane went on: 'The problem for villa is they are running out of games and the goal difference is a problem. They are well organsied, but they give up late goals and that will be costly.

'There will be one or two twists but where you are in a potion to draw, don’t lose, keep the momentum and city near you.

'You have seen the reaction of city, they know what a big moment it was last kick of the game.'