Erik ten Hag defends Marcus Rashford insisting his form is ‘progressing’ in the wake of criticism despite dropping him for 4-3 Chelsea defeat
- Erik ten Hag defends Marcus Rashford and says he ‘wants to win trophies’
- Rashford, 26, came on as a second-half substitute in the 4-3 defeat to Chelsea
- Why this is the end for Erik ten Hag at Man United – Listen to the It all starts podcast
Erik ten Hag insists Marcus Rashford is motivated to help Manchester United enjoy a successful end to the season, despite fresh criticism of the England star.
Rashford was left on the bench after Thursday’s 4-3 defeat at Chelsea and made little impact after replacing Rasmus Hojlund in the 66th minute.
Despite writing a heartfelt article on The Players’ Tribune website in February highlighting his commitment to his hometown club following an infamous tequila bender in Belfast, the 26-year-old has come under renewed scrutiny.
Criticism from former United players Gary Neville, Roy Keane and Rio Ferdinand led to Rashford’s brother and representative Dwaine Maynard accusing the pundits of making clickbait comments.
Ten Hag claimed his decision to bench Rashford at Stamford Bridge was aimed at keeping him fresh for Liverpool on Sunday. He defended the player’s commitment and said Rashford will be motivated to help United clinch a Champions League spot and win the FA Cup, as well as get into top form for this summer’s European Championships.
Erik ten Hag dropped Marcus Rashford after 4-3 defeat to Chelsea but says his form is ‘improving’
Rashford came on as a second-half substitute at Stamford Bridge but was criticized for his performance
Ten Hag selected former United player Gary Neville when defending Rashford
“I don’t know what Gary Neville said,” said the United manager. ‘But lately his (Rashford) form has been improving.
‘He has a lot of motivation because he wants to be successful with us. He wants to win trophies and score goals. But he wants to win and contribute, and we have a chance with the FA Cup.
‘He wants to fight for a place in the Champions League and the European Championship is coming. So his motivation must be high. Before Brentford he scored three goals in three games.’
