Former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has encouraged the club's youngster James Wilson to model his game on Robin van Persie.

Nineteen-year-old Wilson is thought to be highly regarded by manager Louis van Gaal, who has used the centre-forward on eight occasions this season.

Looking to the future, Solskjaer, who scored 126 goals during his 11-year stint at Old Trafford, believes that Wilson can help to fulfil his potential by shadowing the experienced Van Persie.

"There's definitely something there. He's got pace, he can finish and, when his body fills out, he'll improve even more," the Norwegian told United Review.

"As a young striker, he can't have a better mentor than Robin van Persie. My message would be to just copy your game from his, it's that simple."

Wilson has been tipped to retain his place in the United starting lineup for this weekend's trip to Aston Villa.