Manchester United fans don't understand Erik ten Hag's Marcus Rashford decision vs Aston Villa

Manchester United supporters are expecting Marcus Rashford to make a statement return after being named in the line-up to take on Aston Villa, but question whether playing him on the right is for the best.

The striker has been benched for his last five matches, his last start coming in the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle on December 2. Rashford’s two strikes make him United’s most prolific attacker in the Premier League this season, with his team failing to score in their last four outings.

The 26-year-old, usually favoured on the left, has been a shadow of the player who scored 30 goals last season and fans are hoping he can spark his campaign into life as Antony is dropped to the bench. Supporters will also be urging Rasmus Hojlund to get on the scoresheet having not scored in 14 Premier League matches.

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Alejandro Garnacho completes the front three on the left while Bruno Fernandes plays in front of Christian Eriksen and the impressive Kobbie Mainoo. Raphael Varane comes back from illness to partner Jonny Evans in central defence.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka starts on the right as Diogo Dalot replaces the absent Luke Shaw at left-back in front of Andre Onana. United will be under pressure to get a good result after the defeat to West Ham. The club went into Christmas in eighth and risk falling further behind the top four with another poor result.

There was one main line-up talking point among United fans. Some on X, formerly Twitter, reacted to Rashford’s inclusion, questioning whether Erik ten Hag has made the right call playing him on the right wing.

@SayNoMore33: Hope it's Rashford on the left. Might as well keep Antony in the side if