Rio Ferdinand demands that Man Utd star is not sold with urgent message to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ruben Amorim

Former defender Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United to keep hold of one player after his performance against Lyon.

On Thursday night, United took on French Ligue 1 outfit Lyon as the pair battled for a place in the semi-final of the Europa League.

It looked like it was going to be another dismal night for the Red Devils after they threw away a 2-0 lead, with Lyon taking the tie to extra time.

The visitors then went 4-2 up before three late goals from United sent Old Trafford into pandemonium, sealing a stunning 5-4 victory.

As a result, Ruben Amorim's side will now take on La Liga outfit Athletic Club in the last four. On the other side of the draw, Tottenham Hotspur and Bodo/Glimt will battle for a place in the final.

Speaking after the match, United legend Ferdinand urged the club to resist the temptation of selling Argentine Alejandro Garnacho.

The 20-year-old impressed the former England star despite missing a huge chance to make it 3-0 at the start of the second half. Garnacho was eventually replaced by Christian Eriksen with 100 minutes on the clock.

Ferdinand said on TNT Sports: "When there’s space to run into, Alejandro Garnacho can be a real devastating threat.

"Yes, he needs to work on that end product but he’s still a young and improving player so that will come."

He continued: "Stick with him. I believe Manchester United should stick with him."

Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United to keep Alejandro Garnacho. Image: Getty

So far in the 24/25 campaign, Garnacho has managed 10 goals and nine assists in 50 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils.

During the January transfer window, the forward was linked with a move away from Old Trafford, and the likes of Chelsea and Napoli were said to be interested.

After a wild night inside the Theatre of Dreams, United will be back in Premier League action this weekend when they take on Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon.