Marcus Rashford has been compared to Anthony Martial.
It is an almighty insult for a player that found the back of the net 30 times last season to be likened to Martial, who looks a shadow of the youngster that arrived from AS Monaco in 2015.
The reason Rashford warrants this type of comparison is down to the fact he has managed just two goals in 18 appearances this season. Furthermore, he was replaced after the hour mark at St James’ Park after another disappointing display.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher labelled Rashford’s performance against Newcastle ‘unacceptable’ for a number of reasons.
Carragher said (via GOAL): “Watching Marcus Rashford, it was an unacceptable performance, for a few reasons. None of the players came out with any credit, but that lad didn’t play midweek [in the Champions League], so there isn’t any mitigating reason why he hasn’t been 100 per cent. I’ve been a local player and it isn’t easy, especially when your team is not doing well. When it’s not going well, it’s your job to fix it and you’ve got to drag those around you. I’m watching Marcus Rashford and he reminds me of Martial. And that’s the worst possible thing you can probably say about him. A foreign player who comes in, hasn’t done the business, doesn’t care – and that’s a fact with Martial. Marcus Rashford is now looking like Anthony Martial. As a local player, it’s your job to drag those other players up. If your confidence is down, you’re not scoring goals, or you’re not getting assists, no problem. But you do not stop running for that badge, that shirt and those supporters.”
United legend Roy Keane backed up that point, adding: “He’s a local lad, he’s got the mega deal and that is all well and good. I need a bit more – you run forward but you have to run back. Cover yards. He’s 26 now, he’s not a child anymore. He’s got to set the example. Is he on his own? Absolutely not. He’s one of the experienced players in that dressing room and if he’s not setting the example. We mentioned Martial and I know he’s an easy target. We forgive Martial when he scores a goal every 14 years. But if we’re 1-0 down to Newcastle and we put the ball into the box for you, you better get hold of that ball and get us up the pitch. But he’s just touching it and giving it away cheaply. I’m thinking, ‘You might as well go down the leagues’. Man United were trying to get rid of him a few years ago.”
Next up for United is Chelsea at home. It remains to be seen if Rashford will keep his place in the team.
Get the latest Manchester United news, opinion, interviews and exclusive features with the Stretty Newsletter – Ad Free! Kick off your afternoon with the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.
