Despite coming under criticism in recent weeks, Erik ten Hag feels that Marcus Rashford’s form is progressing.
Rashford was unable to influence the game for his side from the bench last night as Chelsea produced a stunning comeback to overturn United’s 3-2 lead, with Cole Palmer scoring in the 100th and 101st minutes to grab his hat-trick and snatch the points.
Ten Hag claimed that Rashford did not start the game purely because of rotation purposes, saying to MUTV: “He did not start due to rotation, to keep him and the team fresh through a busy period with another big game on Sunday.”
After the heights of last season, Rashford’s form has stagnated this campaign with just eight goals all term. The England international did score in successive games against Manchester City and Everton but was virtually a spectator for United’s 1-1 draw with Brentford last weekend.
Ten Hag has ignored the criticism aimed towards his player and said he is progressing well right now.
He said: “I think lately his form is progressing. I think he has a big motivation because he wants to be successful with us.
He wants to win trophies, he wants to score goals and contribute. For him to win trophies, we still have a chance in the FA Cup. He also wants to fight for a Champions League spot and the Euros are coming so I would say his motivation should be high.
“Form is about momentum, and we can change the momentum at any time. Before Brentford, he scored three goals in three games.”
