Marcus Rashford ruled out of England Nations League games with hip injury
Marcus Rashford will miss England’s next three Nations League matches after a hip problem forced him off during the second half of Manchester United’s 1-1 draw at Fulham. The forward is set to sit out fixtures against Spain, Czechia and Croatia over the coming three weeks as he begins his recovery.
Rashford faces a key spell on the sidelines
The injury interrupts a difficult start to Rashford’s latest Manchester United spell. Back at Old Trafford after loan periods with Aston Villa and Barcelona, he has started four of United’s opening five Premier League games but has not scored or created a goal in more than 400 minutes on the pitch.
- Rashford was withdrawn with a hip issue at Craven Cottage.
- United drew 1-1 with Fulham on Sunday.
- He will be unavailable for England’s Nations League programme against Spain, Czechia and Croatia.
- United must now wait for him to regain fitness before attempting to revive his attacking output.
Owen questions forward’s mood and consistency
Michael Owen said Rashford had again looked subdued against Fulham, describing the left-sided attacker as the least influential member of United’s front line. The former England striker pointed to Rashford’s body language and suggested the player did not appear to be enjoying his football.
Owen said Rashford has the physical and technical tools to be a leading forward, but believes his performances have too often lacked consistency. He added that the player appeared burdened despite having opportunities most footballers would want, raising the possibility that an off-field issue could be affecting him.
Barcelona return leaves place under pressure
Owen also assessed Rashford’s time in Spain, arguing that the Barcelona move represented an enormous chance but did not produce enough for the club to keep him permanently. Barcelona subsequently spent heavily on Anthony Gordon as they replaced him.
Rashford has been satisfactory rather than outstanding since returning to United, in Owen’s view, and competition could soon make his place the easiest to target for change.
- Benjamin Sesko is pushing to return to the starting XI, provided his fitness allows it.
- If Sesko comes back into the side, Matheus Cunha is expected to move to the left.
- That switch could leave Rashford outside United’s preferred attacking three.
For now, the immediate task is recovery. Once fit, Rashford will need to deliver more decisively if he is to protect his starting role.
