Erik ten Hag knows that Marcus Rashford is in a special run of form. It has been a truly enjoyable experience to see how far he has come over the past year. From someone completely shot of any self confidence to a footballer that can do the unimaginable.
Manchester United were looking to put one foot in the Carabao Cup final on Wednesday night and we did exactly that. Nottingham Forest were no match for the Reds as Rashford opened the scoring with a sublime solo goal. It was the United striker’s 10th goal in 10 games.
Ten Hag couldn’t help but single Rashford out for praise after the game. With the form is he in right now, you feel that United could beat any side on their day. The 25-year-old winger gives us an advantage over most teams in the world when he is scoring goals at this rate.
“There are more players who are playing really well but I am happy with Marcus, his performance and his development,” Ten Hag told reporters after the match, as quoted by The Guardian.
“From the start of the season he is growing and keeps doing that. We have to keep his process going and if he is in that mood and spirit, I think he is unstoppable.
“It is up to the team to get him in the right positions. In possession we have a plan, [but it is up to some players like] like Rashy, Bruno [Fernandes] and Christian Eriksen to be creative in the final third and do something no one expects, some crazy stuff.”
Tonight’s win means Rashford can be rested for the second leg against Forest. Ten Hag may want to give Alejandro Garnacho a start in that game, maybe Jadon Sancho too, but I still expect a strong XI at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag doesn’t underestimate anyone. Every game needs to be won.
