Marcus Rashford was omitted for Man United’s 4-3 defeat at Chelsea on a day Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand aired reservations about the England international.
Erik ten Hag says Marcus Rashford should be motivated during Manchester United’s run-in despite his recent demotion.
Rashford was relegated to the bench for the 4-3 Premier League defeat at Chelsea on Thursday night and his replacement, Antony, impressed while Alejandro Garnacho scored twice on his return to Rashford’s favoured post on the left side.
Ten Hag said before kick-off Rashford’s bench role was “rotational” but United’s line-up mostly consisted of their best available players.
Rashford came on for 15 minutes in England’s 1-0 friendly defeat to Brazil two weeks ago and was unused for the 2-2 draw with Belgium last week.
He was substituted after 80 minutes in United’s 1-1 draw at Brentford on Saturday before appearing in the 66th minute at Stamford Bridge.
United legend Gary Neville observed “there’s something not right” with Rashford on a podcast with Rio Ferdinand, who encouraged Rashford “to look at who is around him” after he was disciplined twice this season.
Rashford’s brother and agent, Dwaine Maynard, appeared to blame Neville and Ferdinand over “bad mind” techniques.
Ten Hag scolded Rashford for attending a birthday party in Deansgate hours after United’s 3-0 home defeat to Manchester City in October.
Rashford was also removed from the squad for the 4-2 FA Cup fourth round win away to Newport County after embarking on a bender in Belfast.
Friction has emerged between Rashford and United matchgoers this season as his body language has been constantly questioned.
He had scored in three consecutive games before United’s awful display at Brentford and Ten Hag is sure Rashford can rediscover form.
“I don’t know what Gary Neville was saying,” Ten Hag replied. “I think lately his (Rashford’s) form is progressing. He has a big motivation since he wants to be successful with us.
“He wants to win trophies and he wants to score goals. He wants to win and to contribute and we have a chance with the FA Cup. He wants to contend for a Champions League spot and the Euros are coming.
“So his motivation should be high. The form… he can adjust the momentum always. He scored before Brentford, he scored three goals in three games.”
