Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, is under immense pressure as his team struggles to maintain consistency in their performance. The key to his survival might just be 26-year-old Marcus Rashford, who has shown flashes of brilliance but has been inconsistent this season.
Rashford is undoubtedly one of Manchester United's best players when he is at the top of his game. However, this season has seen him struggle to maintain that level consistently. Despite being dropped by Ten Hag for the thrilling 4-3 clash with Chelsea and only playing for 24 minutes without contributing directly to a goal, the manager justified it as a rotation strategy.
Erik ten Hag, Man Utd manager, said:
"Marcus is on the bench for rotation to keep him and the team fresh through a busy period, with another big game on Sunday,"
Rashford needs to be consistent with his performances
Rashford showed signs of improvement in recent weeks with goals in the Everton fixture and an impressive strike against Man City. Yet he reverted back to lackluster form during their weekend match against Brentford. Last season saw Rashford firing Man Utd into Champions League glory and securing a Carabao Cup title with an impressive tally of 30 goals.
This term though tells a different story; Rashford has managed just eight goals and six assists across all competitions so far. With late collapses against Brentford and Chelsea ramping up pressure on Ten Hag, it’s clear that he needs Rashford firing on all cylinders if he hopes to remain at Old Trafford next season.
Rashford needs old-schooled hardcore treament
Sky Sports pundit and Manchester United legend, Roy Keane, believes that while Rashford is an 'outstanding' player, he needs a 'kick up the a**e' occasionally. This metaphorical kick is to remind him of his responsibilities and that he can't afford to go missing in games.
Roy Keane, Manchester United legend, said:
“There’s no question mark about Rashford’s ability, He’s outstanding – but there’s something amiss with him. We’ve had these conversations every few months – a player can have an off-spell or a dip, but he’s certainly not enjoying his football."
“Who is giving him an old-fashioned kick up the a**e and saying ‘Come on, we need more from you?’ If you want to be this leader, and you’re on the big contracts, then there is that responsibility. I don’t think that is happening, I don’t think there is anybody on his case.”
Rashford's performance could be pivotal for Ten Hag's future at Manchester United. The young player has shown what he is capable of, but consistency remains an issue. If Rashford can find his form and maintain it, not only will it benefit the team but also potentially save Ten Hag's job. It’s clear that both player and manager have their work cut out for them in the coming weeks.
