Teddy Sheringham believes that Manchester United's young striker James Wilson has a bright future ahead of him.

Having made his debut during Ryan Giggs's caretaker tenure last season, 19-year-old Wilson has flitted between Louis van Gaal's senior side and United's Under-21 team this campaign.

Sheringham, who scored 46 goals during his time at Old Trafford, has backed the youngster to become the 20-goal-a-season striker that Van Gaal has stated he needs.

"I really like James Wilson. It's a shame for him that Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie are in front of him. Louis van Gaal said recently that he doesn't have a striker who can score 20 goals a season, but I think if you put Wilson up there with Wayne Rooney then you'd have two players who can reach those figures for you," he told United Review.

"He's very direct, scores goals, has good pace and that added bonus of being a left-footer. They always tend to catch defenders off guard and it always looks more special when the left-footed strike goes in. I like his attitude, he looks a good player, a good prospect and one that everyone needs to keep an eye on."

Wilson has made 16 first-team appearances in all competitions this term, scoring two goals in the process.