Rashford earned widespread praise after the England forward successfully campaigned for school food vouchers to be provided over the summer holidays in Britain, revealing that he had relied on such support as a boy.

The 22-year-old will join club greats Alex Ferguson and Bobby Charlton in receiving the honorary doctorate, the highest honour the university bestows.

“It’s a proud day for myself and my family. When you look at the great names that have been awarded this doctorate in the past, it’s humbling,” Rashford told United’s website.

“We still have a long way to go in the fight to combat child poverty in this country but receiving recognition from your city means we’re heading in the right direction and that means a lot.”

Rashford had helped to raise around £20 million with charity Fareshare UK to supply meals to struggling families during the Covid-19 pandemic.