When Manchester United waved goodbye to Jesse Lingard last summer, there will have been no player quite as sad as Marcus Rashford.
The pair were close off the pitch and at times formed a strong connection on it, starring for Manchester United and England.
Lingard starred at the 2018 World Cup and while did not make the squad for Qatar 2022 – he is thrilled to see ex-teammate Rashford lighting up this year’s tournament.
Rashford is now the joint leading goalscorer at the World Cup with three goals after a brace for England against Wales.
Jesse Lingard reacts to Rashford display
Marcus Rashford posted on Instagram after the 3-0 win over Wales, and saw several replies from former United academy stars.
Jesse Lingard, James Garner, Angel Gomes and Timothy Fosu-Mensah all responded to congratulate the in-form star.
Rashford went looking for his hat-trick late on, seeing a shot saved by the legs of Wayne Hennessey, before he was substituted in the 75th minute.
He has done his part to surely secure a starting spot for England’s last 16 tie against Senegal, and Gareth Southgate wanted to take no risks with his fitness.
His turnaround has been remarkable considering he did not even make the England squad in the summer due to poor form.
Rashford worked hard to get back on track for club and country, and is now reaping the rewards and adulation.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
