Alan Shearer issues Marcus Rashford warning ahead of Manchester United run-in

Former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer does not believe Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford is guaranteed a spot in the England squad for the European Championship this summer.

Rashford was limited to just 15 minutes of action in the most recent international break, stepping off the bench in the latter stages of England's 1-0 defeat to Brazil last Saturday. He was an unused substitute against Belgium on Tuesday.

Competition for places within Gareth Southgate's squad, certainly in wide areas, has never been higher, with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Jarrod Bowen, Anthony Gordon, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Rashford all vying for places. Saka missed the two aforementioned friendlies through injury, as did Grealish.

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Rashford has not been at his best for United this season, scoring just eight goals in 35 appearances in all competitions. However, he has scored in each of his last three games, offering hope that he is set to finish the season with a flourish.

Amid Rashford's desire to operate as a winger and not as an out-and-out striker, Shearer believes his form between now and the end of the campaign will dictate Southgate's decision.

Shearer, speaking in a Q&A session on The Athletic's website, said: "If Rashford plays well between now and the end of the season then that could potentially force the manager's hand. But I don't think he's a certainty to go, no.

"He's not a centre-forward, he doesn't want to play there. He'd be going as a wide forward who can play as a striker in an emergency.

"You can tell from his body language that