Marcus Rashford needs this international break more than most Manchester United players

Sometimes international breaks can hamper momentum and break rhythm but Marcus Rashford might need this one more than most.

Hooked in the second half against Brentford and with just one goal to his name so far this season the forward is struggling for form. He was sensational for United last term, coming up with important goals and performances as Erik ten Hag’s side restored Champions League football to their agenda and claimed a first trophy in six years.

But that golden touch has deserted him so far this term. He’s far from the only Reds player performing below his best but such was his impact last season that his troubles are being keenly felt.

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The 25-year-old scored 30 goals in all competitions in 2022-23 but will have to go some to match that this time around. He actually only managed three in his opening 11 Premier League games last term, supplemented by a brace against Cypriot minnows Omonia Nicosia in the Europa League.

Yet a year ago it was the World Cup that sparked a run, strikes for England against Iran and Wales saw him hit the ground running on his return to United. Whether it was a desire to show he belonged in England’s first XI having been on the fringes at the World Cup, or the extra spring in his step by netting in a major tournament, he was sensational in club colours.

“I didn’t get too many minutes away so to come back and get the ball rolling is really important,” Rashford said after a scoring return to United in the Carabao Cup against Burnley.

Ten goals arrived in his first 10 games back, he hit eight in eight in the new year including the clincher in the