Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has been under major scrutiny after being the worst player on the pitch in the defeat to Newcastle at the weekend.
With Anthony Martial on the pitch too, that’s not something we say lightly. But Marcus Rashford genuinely was that bad.
Manchester United supporters had hoped that there would be a rejuvenated Rashford, after he scored the previous weekend against Everton, with Bruno Fernandes gifting him a penalty kick.
He had the midweek off too, against Galatasaray, yet still served up a lacklustre performance, adding to the frustration.
Marcus Rashford ‘lost’, say pundits
There is lots of attention on Rashford with manager Erik ten Hag dodging a question on him in his pre-match press conference.
The forward’s situation has been discussed on ESPN FC, with former players expressing their views on the Manchester United academy graduate.
Former Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot said: “It’s sad. Last season he scored so many goals, extended his deal, we are sitting here it’s not like the guys are against him, because he’s a very talented player, he should lead the line in terms of being in charge, how the captain would, and at the moment he is not showing that.
“He has all the ingredients to lead the line, lead the team, and make them play the style of football they want to play and be so influential in the team, and at the moment I feel its almost like he’s sulking. That’s not what you want.
“Marcus should be the kid that uses his speed, his skill, that enjoys being on the field all the time.”
Melchiot’s comments were backed by ex-Premier League goalkeeper Shaka Hislop, who said: “I think Erik ten Hag has already lost Marcus Rashford.
“Mark Ogden has been reporting ever since the Jadon Sancho incident that there are a lot of players, some players in the dressing room who were not happy with how Ten Hag dealt with that. And now Marcus, as Mario has described Rashford’s attitude as sulking, and I have to say when you see that, his defensive effort, that’s all you think of, that he’s not happy, not happy with anything, and he is just going through the motions.”
Scrutiny on Marcus Rashford whatever happens
Heading into tonight’s Premier League match at home to Chelsea, there is lots of scrutiny on Marcus Rashford, however it plays out.
Rashford needs to deliver if he gets his chance, supporters won’t stand for a lack of effort on the pitch, if he is even selected.
And if Rashford is dropped, as many feel should be the case, the cameras will be panning to him on the bench at any given opportunity, and that itself will serve as a distraction.
It’s the type of melting pot which often surrounds Manchester United and makes the club so difficult to manage. Erik ten Hag desperately needs a win.
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