Marcus Rashford is already proving his Manchester United critics wrong

Marcus Rashford went viral on social media after Manchester United drew 1-1 against Chelsea in April, but for all the wrong reasons. The forward's performance was lacklustre, uninspiring and his apparent lack of desire was particularly disheartening.

After the full-time whistle, Rashford swiftly made his way from the bench to share an embrace with Thomas Tuchel and that was the moment that caught supporters' attention. They joked that was the most Rashford had run all match and they weren't far from the truth. Rashford used to go viral for goals, but no longer. That should hurt his professional pride.

The forward seemed to lack commitment last season and that was the most disappointing aspect of his performances. United fans will forgive you for being out of form, but they won't forgive you for not doing the basics, especially when the chips are down.

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Rashford might even admit that he struggled for motivation last season. Regardless of what's going on around the club, players should always give their all for the shirt, but it might be understandable why Rashford looked a shadow of his former self.

He was out of form, devoid of confidence and he was often picked on the right side of the attack when given minutes, which was not conducive to arresting his decline. Ralf Rangnick didn't take to Rashford and the player didn't respond under his leadership. In other sectors, it would be normal to feel disillusioned working under an underqualified boss and perhaps that's how he felt.

Although that's no excuse for not working hard and not tracking back for the shirt, it might offer an explanation for Rashford's performances.