'He's got the ability' - Rio Ferdinand tips FC Copenhagen sensation Roony Bardghji for the top

Sought-after FC Copenhagen starlet Roony Bardghji “doesn’t seem fazed” by the attention he is getting and is “a name we’re going to hear more,” according to Rio Ferdinand.

Bardghji, 18, burst onto the European scene with a stunning winner in a 4-3 thriller against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League group stages in November.

The Sweden Under-21 international is Copenhagen’s top scorer this season with 11 goals in all competitions, but had to settle for a place on the bench for Tuesday’s Champions League last 16 first leg clash with Man City.

Amid speculation of interest from a host of European clubs including United, Ferdinand spoke of how impressed he has been by the youngster this season.

“He’s got a name already, he seems accustomed to that. He doesn’t seem fazed at all,” Ferdinand said.

“Whenever I’ve seen him, he comes on, he looks like he should be there. He wants to be there; he’s got the ability. I think he’s going to be a name we’re going to hear more about.

“This is the type of night where he will want to announce himself even further than he has already.”

Bardghji’s winner against United won’t be forgotten in a hurry due to him sharing a name with Red Devils legend Wayne Rooney.

The Copenhagen star’s strike helped the Danes finish ahead of the Old Trafford club in Group A, earning them a daunting knockout tie with reigning European champions and United’s city rivals Man City.

“There were so many things around that game that will make it an even bigger game for him,” Ferdinand added.

“Yes, his name, but also playing against Manchester United, in this part of the world United have huge support, so he would have grown up knowing about Manchester United.

“It’s big pressure, 18 years old to come in and do that and to be the top goalscorer, says a lot about not just the ability but the mental capacity this young man has.”

Ferdinand’s fellow TNT Sports pundit Joleon Lescott has also been impressed by Bardghji’s form this season.

“He definitely has the belief and the quality to perform at this level,” said Lescott.

“I won’t be surprised if he’s gutted he’s not starting tonight as well. But I’m sure if he gets the opportunity he’ll relish it.”

“I think he has an instinct in front of goal, he recognises where the ball might fall. There are certain things that you can’t necessarily coach and to be that comfortable in front of goal at such a young age, he obviously believes in his ability.”

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