Ex-Red says ‘exceptional’ Utd star wasn’t getting the ‘love’ and ‘support’ he needed from Ten Hag

Marcus Rashford takes orders from Erik ten Hag on the touchline.
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Manchester United players are currently getting acquainted with their new head coach, Ruben Amorim, after he kickstarted his tenure on Monday, November 11.

Of course, several players – such as Bruno Fernandes, Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Hojlund etc. – will have to wait until they return from international duty to properly train with Amorim.

In turn, it gives the likes of Marcus Rashford, who was overlooked for England again this month, the opportunity to spend extra time getting to know the new boss and getting to grips with how the squad may set up when they travel to face Ipswich Town on November 24.

Rashford has been a mainstay under Erik ten Hag and will hope to retain his starting role in the new-look United era. However, his lack of contributions as of late has led to the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo being favourites to occupy each flank.

The No.10 has netted four goals and notched three assists so far this term, although only one goal has been in the Premier League during a 3-0 away win over Southampton in September.

Phil Jones: Rashford must be adequately supported in order to thrive

Marcus Rashford warms up prior to kick-off v Chelsea.
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

His stagnant form is frequently criticised by pundits, with some going as far as to question where Rashford’s head is at due to the frustrated figure he so often cuts on the pitch.

Recently retired Red Phil Jones believes Ten Hag may have played a part in the ‘exceptional’ forward’s confidence being knocked, as he claims the former manager did not give him the ‘support’ or ‘love’ he needed during his tenure.

“I can’t speak highly enough of him,” Jones said of former teammate Rashford. “He’s absolutely deadly in front of goal.

“I remember his first training session for England; all the boys in the changing room afterwards were like, ‘Wow. Wow. What a player.’ – [They’d] never seen anything like it. He’s got so much ability. He just needs a little bit of love, [and] a little bit of support in training, off the pitch, and I think he probably wasn’t getting that from the previous manager. Hopefully – I think he will – this manager will give him that.”

Footage courtesy of the BBC.

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