Eric Bailly has named his favourite Manchester United teammate and most fans will agree with him.

Ivory Coast international Bailly has made eight appearances for the Red Devils this season to help them into second in the Premier League and the top of their Champions League group.

United's top rankings are in part down to Romelu Lukaku's 11 goals in all competitions - although he has drawn five blanks in a row.

And centre back Bailly is thrilled to have the Belgian goal machine on his side.

Bailly couldn't do without Lukaku at United (
Image:
REUTERS)
Bailly is probably just happy that he doesn't have to face Lukaku in the Premier League (
Image:
REUTERS)

"Playing football for a striker is not just about scoring goals," Bailly said ahead of Wednesday's European clash with Benfica.

"So he is untouchable in my team and also in the support and respect he deserves from the fans.

"He is an excellent player.

"I've played against him and now I am fortunate to play with him. Every player knows what kind of player he is and he's playing well and scoring goals.

"The most important thing is he carries on doing his job like a good centre forward."

Lukaku has scored 11 goals already this season (
Image:
Getty Images Europe)

Bailly also believes United will qualify for the Champions League knock-out phase if Jose Mourinho's side can overcome the Portuguese giants this week.

"Tomorrow’s game will be very important for us, because we have won the first three games and we feel that with the fourth one we can basically qualify for the next phase," he added.

"If we do that, it will give us a lot of confidence."

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