Marcus Rashford told ‘we have other options’ as England star makes decision
Manchester United still have some time before they are back in action due to their early exit from the FA Cup
Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford could be in line for some more playing time(Image: Getty)
Manchester United are set for an extended break as the international hiatus concludes. Michael Carrick’s team won’t be participating in FA Cup action this weekend.
United’s last match was on March 20, when they were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw by Bournemouth. The club’s next fixture is scheduled for April 13, when they will host Leeds United.
Players will gradually return after representing their nations during the break, a period which saw Marcus Rashford rejoin the England squad under Thomas Tuchel. The 28-year-old started the opening friendly against Uruguay and made a substitute appearance in the 1-0 defeat to Japan.
Rashford may now have the chance to clock up vital playing time at Barcelona over the weekend, but manager Hansi Flick has issued him a significant message. The Manchester Evening News brings you the latest from Old Trafford.
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Marcus Rashford receives manager’s caution
Rashford moved to Barcelona on an initial loan agreement last summer and has flourished under head coach Flick. His future remains somewhat uncertain, with a £26million purchase option reportedly still in play.
However, he has found himself consigned to the bench in recent months following Raphinha’s return from injury. But with the Brazilian suffering another setback, Rashford could seize the opportunity.
Addressing this ahead of their clash against Atletico Madrid on Saturday night, Flick does acknowledge he has several options to replace Raphinha, however.
He said: “It’s an injury, and that’s part of football. We have to accept it. It hasn’t come at the best time, which saddens us, and now we’ll have to see how we manage it.
“I’m happy with Marcus. He’s performing well. He’s had some physical problems in recent weeks, but now’s an opportunity for him. We also have other options like Fermin [Lopez] or Gavi, who’s playing at a very high level. We’ll see what we decide, because we have several choices.”
Morgan Rogers makes transfer decision
One of Rashford’s international colleagues, Morgan Rogers, could be set for a move this summer. The Sun report that Rogers is willing to depart Aston Villa in the forthcoming window amid interest from several top-flight clubs.
United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool are all understood to be interested parties and the report claims Rogers has determined he wants to join a side that can regularly compete for silverware.
Villa will reportedly not obstruct the player should he desire to leave and would demand at least £80m for Rogers, whom they acquired for an initial £8m from Middlesbrough.
England’s 2026 World Cup kits
England and Nike have launched the new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. You can get free delivery on all orders with the code: ENGFREEDEL