While Kobbie Mainoo’s star is on the rise with England, another player has a very uncertain role.
During the past international break we saw Kobbie Mainoo make his England debut, including a starting role against Belgium.
One player who did not feature in the match at all was Marcus Rashford, an unused substitute.
There were whispersthis may have been fitness related, yet it would also have been no surprise if it was a performance based decision.
Marcus Rashford has ‘no chance’
Marcus Rashford has taken a big backwards step this season, struggling to replicate his prolific 2022/23 campaign.
Even though Rashford did not end last season strongly, he still managed to reach the 30 goal mark for the first time in his career.
This season he is stuck in single figures, with eight goals. There is no guarantee he gets to 10 by the end of the campaign.
Speaking to Talksport, Simon Jordan believes Rashford does not be part of the England squad this summer for Euro 2024.
The former Crystal Palace owner blasted: “No chance that Rashford is getting on the plane. What has he done to merit it?
“He had a good season last year, this season he has stunk the place out.”
READ: Manchester United top scorers and assist leaders for 2023/24
Steve Bruce also unconvinced on Marcus Rashford
Former Manchester United defender Steve Bruce was unable to put together a convincing counter-argument in favour of Marcus Rashford.
Bruce described Rashford’s situation as ‘sad’, not to see him playing up to the high standards he has set previously.
“All the other guys are edging in front of him. It’s a big debate, that’s why Gareth is the England manager.
“That one I would have to sit on the fence because I haven’t seen him do enough, unfortunately, and I don’t think he is a great place, which is sad for somebody of his ability and the club he is playing for.”
Missing out may be better for Marcus Rashford
If Marcus Rashford does go to the Euros, he is unlikely to have a starting role. Even when he was in form, Gareth Southgate could not deliver this.
So it may be in his best interests to miss out, and have a break. Rashford has looked like he is in need of one, physically and mentally.
This would allow Rashford the chance to reset and focus inpre-season, to start afresh. The European Championships in 2021 was an unhappy experience for him, one he may not be desperate to repeat.
