Manchester United’s forward Marcus Rashford admitted he overslept for the team meeting and thus he was dropped from the starting XI against Wolves. Rashford was introduced by Erik Ten Hag in the 46th minute of the game as he replaced Alejandro Garnacho.
The English striker scored in the 76th minute to give a decisive lead to his team. Erik Ten Hag later revealed he dropped Rashford for unspecified “internal disciplinary” reasons.
“Obviously it’s team rules. I made a mistake,” he told BT Sport after the game. “That can happen. I’m obviously disappointed not to play but I understand the decision and I’m happy we managed to win anyway.
“We draw a line under it and move on. I was a little bit late for a meeting. I overslept but it can happen.”
ETH has made it clear that he wants everyone at the club to follow the specified rules. The Dutchman had also dropped Cristiano Ronaldo from the final XI for the match against Chelsea and the Portuguese had refused to come on as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur.
Meanwhile, Rashford has been in good form for the Red Devils in the ongoing season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in the 16 matches he has played in the Premier League.
“I think I’m in a good place,” he added. “I’m just pleased with the way we’re progressing. In the past we could have easily lost that game or definitely drawn it. They put a lot of pressure on us but we stood up to it well and David [de Gea] made a massive save late on.
“It’s going to be tough like any other season but we’ve got to push ourselves and try to get as high up the table as possible. A lot of the teams are going well this year and being very consistent. We have to be on top of our game to try to go one step further.”
On the other hand, Manchester United defensive midfielder Casemiro has tipped Rashford to be among the top five players in the world.
“I’m gonna be very honest with you. I was really surprised with the player Rashford is,” he told ESPN Brasil after the game. “In my opinion, especially knowing the player off the pitch, I can tell you that if he’s doing well, he can be one of the top five players in the world.
“He has an incredible way of hitting the ball, he’s got strength, he’s quick, is very clever playing. He was one of the players that really surprised me. Of course, when you play in a different league you already know the player, but when you’re in the same club every day.
“What a spectacular player. I’m enjoying so much playing with him. He gives us a lot of energy. I’m delighted to play with him. And I’m sure if he stays like this, with the conditions he has, he can easily be a top-five player because he’s exceptional.”
Manchester United will next take on Bournemouth on Tuesday night.
