Rio Ferdinand was impressed with the improvement of one Manchester United player against Everton.
Manchester United returned to winning ways on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over Everton in the Premier League.
It was far from a vintage performance from Erik ten Hag’s side but it was at least a promising response after last week’s Manchester derby defeat.
Both goals came in the first half of another wise dull affair and they came from the penalty spot.
Alejandro Garnacho was twice tripped in the area after fooling defenders with fantastic skill, with Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford converting a penalty each.
Garanacho earned the plaudits for his massive contribution and good performance but Rio Ferdinand was impressed by the difference he saw in Rashford at Old Trafford.
Rio Ferdinand on Marcus Rashford
Speaking on TNT Sports at half-time, Ferdinand said on Rashford: “His body language looks good today.
“Defensively too. He contributed to both goals. He’ll be happy with his half.”
This was particularly impressive for Ferdinand given he had criticised Rashford for his body language before the match.
He said: “I don’t think he’s that type of player, a leader. His body language doesn’t sometimes look the best.
“Players such as [Raphael] Varane and Bruno [Fernandes] should be getting that out of Marcus.”
More promising signs from Rashford
It’s no secret that Rashford has been nowhere near his best this season, which has been disappointing given how good he was last year when he hit 30 goals.
Injuries to United’s strikers forcing him to play in the middle has had a detrimental effect but even on the left he hasn’t yet reached last season’s heights.
But there have been promising signs of improvement over the last week.
Rashford’s sensational goal against Manchester City was a needed reminder of his quality and a platform to build his confidence upon.
Against Everton, he did just that by not only scoring from the spot but putting in an illustrious, sharp display going in both directions.
Let’s hope there’s more to come.