James Collins says form of Rashford shows that young English talent is still there in the Academy system.

James Collins believes that the recent emergence of Marcus Rashford at Manchester United and subsequently with the England national team shows that there may be other young gems lurking in the Academies of big clubs.

Rashford has been a revelation in the second half of the season, scoring eight goals and helping Manchester United lift the FA Cup at Wembley. Rashford’s astonishing debut season ended with an early goal against Australia on his England debut and a call-up to Roy Hodgson's squad for the Euro's.

The 18-year-old is now trying to force his way into the England team during the up-and-coming European Championships in France.

Collins, who recently passed the FA UEFA Pro-Licence coaching qualification, feels that more young British players should be given an opportunity to show how good they can be at senior level.

James told crewealex.net: “I am pleased to see Marcus doing so well for Manchester United and England. He could still be languishing in United’s Under-18s and Under-21s but he was given an opportunity and he has taken it.

“Whatever people think about (Louis) Van Gaal, he has been prepared to throw the younger players in. That may have been down to injuries or whatever in some instances, but he has still been prepared to give them that chance.

“How many other Rashford’s might there be in the Academy system? I think the Academy structure in this country does produce good players but we need more of them to be given a chance.

James added: “It would certainly be to the benefit of the England team in giving us more of a pool to choose from and I do think that some clubs certainly miss a trick by not doing it.”