Marcus Rashford proves Erik ten Hag right as Man United status made clear

Marcus Rashford netted his first goal for Manchester United since March in Saturday's 3-0 win at Southampton.

It was a much-needed moment of relief for a player who has come under fire in recent weeks. Rashford endured a poor season under Erik ten Hag last term with just eight goals in all competitions after netting a career-best 30 in the 2022/23 campaign.

And things were not looking promising for the forward at the start of 2024/25 with no goals, assists and minimal contribution in attacking areas after United lost two of their opening three fixtures. Rashford's struggles have led to transfer speculation and reported claims that he feels United legends have been unfairly targeting him with their criticism.

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While one goal against a relegation-threatened Southampton team is unlikely to silence the critics, this is a well-deserved moment for a player who has attracted criticism like few other players in red. His status as an academy graduate and a more senior figure now aged 26 have led to plenty of expectation.

But it looks like the international break may have done Rashford some good. The United attacker stepped up his bid to return to form and took his training to two non-league football grounds where he was put through his paces at Ashton United and West Didsbury & Chorlton in a personal training regime.

It's why Ten Hag's decision to start Rashford against the Saints made sense. Having worked hard over the past few weeks and with no fatigue from international duty it made sense to play Rashford instead of Alejandro Garnacho who has just recently