Ruben Amorim says he has spotted problem with playing Marcus Rashford up front

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Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford got the Ruben Amorim era off to a perfect start – before familiar problems emerged.

Ruben Amorim made a bold call in his first match in charge, selecting Marcus Rashford as striker.

It was not a complete surprise. Rashford had a whole week of training, and there was speculation the academy graduate could be utilised in the role.

Rashford took just two minutes to score – yet failed to get another shot at goal during the game and faded, substituted on 68 minutes.

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Amorim addresses Rashford play

Marcus Rashford’s early strike came courtesy of excellent work from Amad, sweeping in a first-time finish from close range after a terrific run from the wing-back.

United’s front three did not quite click as the game went on, and speaking after the game, Amorim admits the Rashford’s hold-up play is below par.

Speaking to DAZN, quoted via Mais Futebol, Amorim explained the situation as he saw it, admitting it was detrimental to the team.

Amorim said: “The main thing is that they tried. We lost some balls, we played with Rashford up front and we lost some physicality, some ability to hold the ball.

“We had two training sessions and it’s such a big change. We have to think about the next game and the Europa League.”

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The case for Hojlund

Rasmus Hojlund replaced Marcus Rashford up front, and he produced an imperfect performance with his own 22 minutes plus stoppage time.

But while Rashford is in one way a winner after scoring the first goal under Amorim, it’s clear the head coach will look to experiment.

Amorim wants to take a look at more players, and holding the ball up is one of Hojlund’s strengths. United actually got back into the game more as the second half went on.

If the new boss feels that the Dane will have a bigger impact on the team than Rashford did, then the door is open for him to start against Bodo/Glimt, and try and stake a bigger claim.

Hojlund can provide the physicality Rashford lacks, and it is certainly not an open and shut case that Rashford will lead the line against Everton next weekend.