Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has claimed that Marcus Rashford’s recent behaviour has nothing to do with contempt for him.
The England international has made headlines this week after being caught on a wild night out in Belfast, just hours before a club training session last Friday (January 26), which he called in sick for. Rashford failed to impress football fans with his actions and was withdrawn from United’s 4-2 FA Cup victory over Newport on Sunday (January 28).
A day later, the Premier League club issued a statement stating that the 26-year-old had been subjected to an internal disciplinary process because he had “taken responsibility for his actions”. Rashford has returned to training and is eligible for selection ahead of their away fixture against Wolves on Thursday (February 1).
According to reports, the forward has been fined two weeks’ pay, or approximately £700,000, after Ten Hag referred to the matter as “case closed” during the Dutchman’s pre-match press conference. He was questioned if Rashford’s problematic behaviour could indicate a lack of respect for him, which he denied.
“It has nothing to do with that, but let’s focus on the game and move on,” the 53-year-old stated. He went on to say, “The statement is clear, and we must focus on winning football games. Football requires discipline, both on and off the pitch.”
“There is a line when every athlete, every professional, understands what is required. We must focus on winning football games; that is what matters, and every top professional understands what is required,” he added.
Rashford’s off-field difficulties are obviously cause for concern for the club, given he has only four goals in 26 appearances this season.
His bad form may cause him to miss out on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad will be announced this summer, with Daily Star Sport exclusively reporting that the England manager will seek assurances concerning Rashford’s well-being before considering him for his next England team.
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