Marcus Rashford is set to make his return to the Manchester United squad for tonight’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United at Old Trafford.
The 27-year-old forward has been absent from the matchday squad for United’s last four matches, with his most recent appearance coming in the 2-1 Europa League victory over Viktoria Plzen on December 12.
Rashford was spotted arriving at Old Trafford shortly before 4:30pm today, carrying a boot bag and listening to music, as one of the last players to enter the stadium.
Earlier this month, the England international indicated his desire for a change, stating he was “ready for a new challenge and the next steps” in an interview with journalist Henry Winter.
Marcus Rashford is back in the United squad
Reuters
The forward’s comments have fuelled speculation about his future at Old Trafford, where he has spent 19 years of his career.
However, Rashford remains under contract with United until at least 2026, having signed a new deal in July 2023.
His initial omission came alongside Alejandro Garnacho for the Manchester derby on December 15, though both players had trained at Carrington that morning.
This season, Rashford has netted seven goals and provided three assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.
Three of those goals have come in six matches under new manager Ruben Amorim following his appointment in November.
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The Portuguese boss will be hoping Rashford’s return can help turn around United’s recent poor form, with the club having suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions.
A victory against Newcastle tonight would see the Red Devils climb to 11th place at the season’s halfway point, with United having managed just six Premier League wins so far this campaign.
Amorim faces several selection challenges for tonight’s clash, with captain Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte both suspended.
Marcus Rashford had been left out of United’s squad for the last four matches
Reuters
The manager’s options are further limited by injuries to key players Victor Lindelof, Mason Mount and Luke Shaw, who remain unavailable for selection.
Garnacho, who has already returned to the fold following his own brief absence, could be handed his first start since being reintegrated into the squad.
Alternatively, Rashford might begin the match on the bench, having missed United’s recent defeats to Bournemouth, Wolves and Tottenham in the Carabao Cup.
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