Thursday 16 March 2017 09:26, UK
Gary Neville thinks Manchester United should offer Zlatan Ibrahimovic a two-year deal to stay at Old Trafford.
The striker, who turns 36 in October, has been United's key player this season, scoring 26 goals in all competitions after signing on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last summer.
United expect Ibrahimovic to stay for at least another year, although he is yet to confirm if he will take up the 12-month extension option on his current deal, with LA Galaxy also interested in his services.
Speaking to Omnisport, Sky Sports pundit Neville said he would give Ibrahimovic a two-year deal.
"I'd say yes. Because of the professionalism, the training and his commitment to the club," he said.
"I think United needed personalities and characters after what happened in the previous few seasons. A lot of United's success has revolved around him.
"What I would say is, it will be impossible for him to play every single match in that period.
I think United needed personalities and characters after what happened in the previous few seasons. A lot of United's success has revolved around him.
"There has to be a dip at some point. Ultimately, it's how [Jose] Mourinho manages him over a two-year period because he wants to play every match.
"The reality is, I'm not quite sure that will be able to happen as he continues to get a little bit older."
Ibrahimovic's impressive form has meant opportunities have been more limited for Marcus Rashford this season.
But, with Ibrahimovic suspended for United's next two Premier League matches, Neville hopes Rashford can make his mark.
"It's good that they're not relying upon him in every single game, but in some ways he needs to stand up and take the opportunity," he said.
"He is not getting overplayed, he is able to learn at a more calm pace.
"The bad is that at times maybe his form hasn't been as good as it was last season. He needs to reproduce that standard he set last season."
