Kelechi Iheanacho impressed with United rival Marcus Rashford

Kelechi Iheanacho welcomes comparisons between himself and Marcus Rashford, claiming it serves as motivation to improve his game.

Iheanacho, 19, and Rashford, 18, have been shining lights in unimpressive seasons for Manchester City and United respectively and the form of the strikers has sparked debate among fans over which holds the most potential.

Nigeria international Iheanacho has scored seven league goals in six starts this season, while England U20 star Rashford has four in 10 Premier League starts.

"I hope people keep comparing us because if we can keep challenging each other in the coming years, it could be great for Manchester," said Iheanacho in an interview with the Daily Mail.

Marcus Rashford is

"If we both keep doing well, improving and scoring lots of goals for the team, it could be interesting.

"I love a challenge, so when people compare me and Rashford it gives me more confidence and motivation. It also makes me work even harder."

Iheanacho says he'll be forever thankful to Manuel Pellegrini for giving the striker his shot at first-team football Iheanacho says he'll be forever thankful to Manuel Pellegrini for giving the striker his shot at first-team football

Iheanacho has been impressed with Rashford since his emergence in February, admitting he had learned a lot from him and believes he will become a top player at Old Trafford.

"Rashford is a great young talent. He is big and strong and makes good decisions so I think he's going to be a really good player for United in the coming years," said Iheanacho.

Kelechi Iheanacho has seven goals in six games for City this season

"You can learn from every player, so I've learned from Rashford as well this season and I wish him all the best in his career."

The Manchester clubs will be battling it out for the remaining Champions League place this Sunday.

City know if they beat Swansea, they will secure a top-four finish while United must beat Bournemouth and hope Swansea do them a favour to have any chance of a return to Europe's elite competition.