Marcus Rashford equals Robin van Persie record in Manchester United victory vs Chelsea

Marcus Rashford became the first Manchester United player since Robin van Persie exactly a decade ago to score 30 goals in a single season after finding the net in Thursday night's 4-1 win over Chelsea at Old Trafford.

The England international, who was back in the matchday squad after missing the last two matches through injury and illness respectively, netted the Reds' fourth goal of the evening, turning the ball home from close quarters. It marked his first goal since the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on April 27.

It also meant, of course, that he became the first United player to score 30 goals in a campaign since former striker Van Persie in 2012/13. His United career has been resurrected by manager Erik ten Hag this term, so much so that he has now plundered 25 goals more than he managed last term.

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Rashford's 78th-minute effort put the icing on the cake for United on a night of celebration at Old Trafford, as the club secured a top-four finish and Champions League qualification for next season. They were two goals to the good by half-time, courtesy of a header from Casemiro and a tap-in from Anthony Martial, before Bruno Fernandes made it 3-0 from the penalty spot just five minutes before Rashford found the net.

The England international had stepped off the bench in the first half to replace Antony, who was forced off after just 29 minutes. He was carried off on a stretcher after picking up what appeared to be an ankle injury.

Rashford has now scored 17 goals in the Premier League this season. In total, he has scored 33 times for club and country this season, including his three strikes at the World Cup in Qatar for England.

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