MARCUS RASHFORD is set to start for England against Malta tonight, according to reports.
The Manchester United star has scored just once in 16 appearances for his club so far this season.
Despite his lack of form he was selected for Southgate’s 26-man squad ahead of the likes of Raheem Sterling.
According to Sky Sports, Rashford is set to be handed a start against Malta at Wembley this evening.
England go into the Euro 2024 qualifier having already booked their place at next summer’s tournament.
But boss Southgate is keen to see his stars in action in the penultimate international break before the finals.
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Rashford, 26, reported late for international duty after attending to a personal matter.
He arrived at the England camp on Wednesday and has trained since.
The United star missed his side’s 1-0 win at Fulham through injury after being criticised by Erik ten Hag for partying in the aftermath of the Red Devils’ 3-0 loss to Manchester City.
He was subsequently sent off against Copenhagen in the Champions League, before starting United’s 1-0 win over Luton prior to the international break.
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Southgate, 53, recently addressed Rashford’s poor form at club level.
The Three Lions boss said: “In the end — and respectfully — with the big bucks, comes the big pressure.
“He is the guy that got all the goals last year.
“I’m sure even Harry [Kane] is not thinking I’ve got to be the one to score.
“Maybe with [Rasmus] Hojlund scoring now at United, that will help but you know over a period of time Marcus has scored goals so that’s going to happen again.
“It’s just a case of getting a couple and then he’ll be off and running.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
