MANCHESTER -- Nemanja Matic said he has been offering advice to Scott McTominay and backed the Manchester United youngster to become "a top player."
McTominay has made the breakthrough into Jose Mourinho's team, starting the last three games including crucial clashes against Sevilla and Chelsea.
The 21-year-old played alongside Matic both in Spain and at Old Trafford, and the Serbia international said he had tried to help his fellow midfielder get to grips with senior football.
"He is amazing," Matic said. "He is 21 and to play like that and control the game like that is impressive. He will be a big player for Manchester United.
"I like him because he is a very nice guy and he doesn't have a problem to ask before the game something and I am always there to help him.
"When I came to Manchester I saw within a few days that he would become a top player.
"He is working very hard, but I don't want to say too many things about him because he is still very young. But he deserves all the good things."
As well as McTominay, Matic was also impressed with striker Romelu Lukaku against Chelsea.
Lukaku scored against his former club -- his first goal against a top-six side since joining United from Everton.
It was his 22nd goal of the season, and Matic has backed the striker to get even better.
"I know it was very important for Romelu to score in this game," he said.
"I am happy for him and his work. He also had an assist and I am sure he will continue in this way because he is very important for our team.
"He has played many games very well and scored many goals. Don't forget he is still young. I am happy we have him in our team.
"He is very good in our attack and very strong with the ball. It was his 98th goal in the Premier League, and not many do that."
Source: espn.co.uk