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Cape Town - Brazilian football legend Pele urged Manchester United’s young sensation, Marcus Rashford to not fear critics and be afraid, as he prepares for Euro 2016 with his English teammates.
18-year-old Rashford, who had an impressive debut season with the Red Devils, scored eight goals in his first 18 appearances for the club.
His inclusion in Roy Hodgson's 23-man squad comes only a day after signing a new deal with United that will keep him at the club at least till 2020.
According to Goal website, Pele had a few words of wisdom to share with the debutant, as England prepares to compete in a friendly against Portugal on Thursday before their Euro campaign begins.
"Today it doesn't matter about age. It is important to be prepared. But never, never, never be afraid," Pele said.
"I wish him the same luck that I had in my life."
Pele, who has led Brazil to three World Cup titles, started off his footballing career at the tender age of 17.
"There is big pressure but I think he has to have confidence and trust himself," Pele continued.
"Before I won the World Cup first time, I was told by my coaches: 'You are here because you have a style, you are a good player, don't be afraid because the other players are older than you.' That is my message [to Rashford] too."
England is in Group B and will play their first match on Saturday, June 11 against Russia.
