Manchester United's next manager can help transform Marcus Rashford

When it became clear that both Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani weren't available, it seemed that there would be just one option left for Ralf Rangnick. To play Marcus Rashford upfront.

Losing a player of Ronaldo's calibre and experience, even if he has now passed his peak, was a massive blow for such a high-pressure match but his absence did look as though it could play into Rangnick's favour. With no obligation to play a static and immobile Ronaldo, instead, he could deploy the pacey Rashford through the middle to get in behind Manchester City's high-line.

So it came as quite a surprise to all when the teamsheets were revealed an hour before kick-off and Rashford was once again named amongst the substitutes. Instead, the interim manager opted to play Bruno Fernandes in the lead attacking role closely supported by Paul Pogba in what at times looked like a 4-4-2 - just with no strikers on the pitch. Teenager Anthony Elanga started ahead of Rashford, too.

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It worked, for a time, with the attack combining excellently for Jadon Sancho's stunning equaliser and United actually applied themselves well in the first half. Even if they did go in behind. However, after the break, it all fell to pieces and they didn't manage to muster a single shot as they meekly surrendered. Eventually losing 4-1.

As well as having possible repercussions for United's season after being leapfrogged by Arsenal, who have three games in hand, to fourth spot the game may have a lasting impact on the squad. That's because Rashford is contemplating his future.

The Manchester Evening News understands that the striker is considering his place at United after being left out of the starting