NORTHERN IRELAND international Chris Baird believes Paddy McNair is destined for big things.
McNair has featured just once for the Red Devils this season in their 3-2 victory over Southampton in September.
The 20-year-old is currently training with his country in Belfast but isn't expected to feature in tomorrow's friendly against Latvia.
The defender has been out of action since October 11 having suffered an abdominal injury while away on international duty.
McNair has featured in a number of different positions in his so far short career - playing as a centre-back, full-back and a midfielder.
And Baird insists it's not always ideal for players to be versatile if they want to hold down a place in the starting XI
"I see certain qualities in Paddy that I had at that age coming through...he can play any position," Baird told reporters.
"Personally, I wish I had held down one position. Say right-back, for instance. I played most of my early career there and it wasn't until a few years later I started playing midfield.
"It's down to Paddy. If he wants to hold down one position, go for it. He has that quality. Sometimes it has been a hindrance for me.
"Sometimes you're needed here, needed there, other games not at all. It's his own personal preference. Wherever he chooses, I think he'll have a fantastic career in football."
The Derby midfielder is still a regular for Northern Ireland, but he accepts one day McNair may dispossess him of his place in Michael O'Neill's side.
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| Chris Baird believes Paddy McNair is destined for a 'fantastic career' |
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| Paddy McNair has featured once for the Red Devils this season |
"He's next in line but I'm not finished yet," Baird added.
"Paddy's at the best club in the world, pretty much. He's getting the best training and so on.
"It's a matter of time. Obviously, when I do eventually finish, I imagine he'll step into my shoes.
"He's got all the qualities in the world and I wish him all the best and I hope he has a fantastic career.
"He's technically very good and I think he's got all the qualities he needs to be a Manchester United player."
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