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Marcus Rashford is one of the names to have made his way into the England squad for the World Cup 2022 without any critics questioning his inclusion. Gareth Southgate has been left impressed by the manner in which Rashford has turned around his fortunes over the last few months. From a striker struggling for confidence and form just a year ago, Rashford could end up being one of the crucial players, according to the England manager.
Decline and Comeback
Rashford has not been part of the England setup since the Euro 2020 final when he missed the crucial penalty in the shootout against Italy. Since then, the 25-year-old has experienced an alarming decline in form and stature for club and country. It has taken him the best part of two years to try and rediscover his form. Southgate admitted that he has not picked Rashford in recent times to try and give him the best chance of getting back to top form.
Last season, he was able to come up with only five goals in a staggering 32 matches for Manchester United. The injuries certainly did not help his case. However, the last six months have been a complete U-turn for the player, who is once again enjoying his football and playing with a smile on his face. Now, Rashford has been able to produce the kind of form that made him a household name back in 2016 when he featured as an 18-year-old in his United debut before going on to score a brace in the match. A few months later, Rashford became the youngest goalscorer for England.
Erik ten Hag and Cristiano Ronaldo have been at loggerheads on numerous occasions so far this season and one of the biggest beneficiaries appears to be Rashford. The forward has been able to hit eight goals so far this season including the striker against Aston Villa in the midweek EFL League Cup action. Southgate believes that the presence of Erik ten Hag has been a crucial factor behind Rashford’s impressive form. The United manager has preferred using the 25-year-old in a central position.
Rashford’s Predicted Position in the England Line-Up
Even though Southgate is quite happy with the performances of Rashford leading up to the World Cup, it may be quite difficult for the United frontman to play as a central striker. Harry Kane will be leading the attack as ever and Rashford might have to settle for a place on the flanks. Southgate once again reasserted that Rashford is at his best when coming from the left flank to the inside. Further, Rashford’s ability to take on defenders is also a key attribute that will help England stretch defences especially against the defensive teams.
The form of Rashford has made the striker’s inclusion a no-brainer, but there were question marks about the inclusion of other United players like Harry Maguire. So far this season, the former Leicester City defender has not been at his best, but the lack of defensive reinforcements has led to his inclusion.
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