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Manchester United’s very own Marcus Rashford was heavily involved in a 3-0 romp over Wales in the final group game of the World Cup. But does this warrant him being involved from the word go in their next fixture?
His goals and – more importantly - the scintillating display on the night have enhanced clamour for Rashford to be on the team sheet when the Three Lions face Senegal in hopes of advancing further.
Often not up to scratch in an England shirt, he has failed to stamp his authority for his nation, as he had been unable to score a goal in a tournament before this one.
Gareth Southgate opted for the unorthodox choice of placing Rashford on the side he’s not too familiar with club level, but in this case, it worked. It allowed the pitch to be stretched and provided ample more width and space.
After a halt in form last season with his club Manchester United, things between Rashford and the fans began to turn sour as their once-loved prodigy wasn’t meeting expectations.
But under the watchful eye of Erik ten Hag, the 25-year-old is back to his old ways and has carried his domestic prowess into the World Cup, as he already has three goals under the belt.
Two came against an underwhelming Wales outfit that bowed out of the competition following their defeat to England. Rashford’s first was a ferocious free kick that showed his technicality from a set-piece standpoint, and his second of the game came following a direct run and a textbook piece of skill.
The England gaffer has publicly spoken about meritocracy previously, and by that measure, Rashford’s showing would have ensured he is a guaranteed starter.
However, this would result in a bench full of superstars itching to get a runout. This list exclusively includes Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, and Jack Grealish, providing Foden completes the attacking trio.
Though not likely due to his consistently emphatic performances for England, an out-of-sorts Raheem Sterling should be side-lined for a confident, free-scoring Marcus Rashford.