MARCUS RASHFORD is preparing to go all guns blazing at Euro 2020 and Manchester United must be delighted he is taking them along for the ride.
Not only the fans, but his teammates too.
Rashford caught Paulo Gazzaniga unaware with his sixth minute openerCredit: Getty – Contributor
A powerful run into the box was ended by Moussa Sissoko for the winning penaltyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
With the inconsistent Anthony Martial once again injured, Rashford was joined up front by two junior forwards against Tottenham on Wednesday and continued his ascent to being a senior star in his own right.
An early opener leathered in at the near-post and a second-half penalty made it five in five for the striker and put United sixth in the Premier League standings.
The season began with a debate over whether Rashford can lead the line and his lethal combination of pace, power and clinical finishing is putting those doubts to bed.
But what of his colleagues?
Daniel James launched into life at Old Trafford but has simmered down to deliver a number of anonymous performances of late.
Mason Greenwood popped up on occasion versus Spurs but is a rough gem – the teenager yet to get his qualities as a poacher across in the Prem. It is one of the toughest roles to play, often reserved for the most experienced forwards.
Finally, though, United fans witnessed a buzzing performance from Jesse Lingard on Wednesday with the Englishman not so much feeding off pal Rashford’s energy as guzzling it down.
JAER THE ONE
Rashford’s form poses a big question for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in how he builds his team around the 22-year-old.
A more traditional winger on the opposite flank, James seems a good fit to stretch defences but cannot do it over 90 minutes yet.
That requires patience but also most likely a more experienced central player to come in and control the play better than Lingard can.
Should that be in the form of a forward or attacking midfielder?
The likes of Mario Mandzukic have been touted and a target man certainly seems a good fit to draw defenders in and widen the attackers’ gaps.
Jose Mourinho explains why it’s easier for Man Utd to play against the better teams in the Premier League after Spurs lose 2-1 at Old Trafford
Dare I say it, Olivier Giroud performs this role incredibly for France and will certainly be available in January if Solskjaer fancies a quick fix.
But there is an alternative route, going for the central attacking midfielder who can raise and lower the tempo as he pleases, who can threaten via silky through balls and pings from distance.
Funnily enough, the most available and talented candidate for such a role was sat in the opposite dugout at Old Trafford on Wednesday night: Christian Eriksen.
Dan James hurts Jose Mourinho after sliding into him on the touchline during Man Utd v Tottenham
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
