Manchester United are battling with an injury crisis right now but many of the players hope to return for the FA Cup final.
The penalty shootout win over Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-final keeps Manchester United’s season alive.
It could have been a really miserable final month of the season for United, and the remaining games won’t be easy, but we do have something to look forward to at the end of the season, even if City are formidable opponents.
We should see players pushing themselves to get back, and real competition for places emerging for the final XI at Wembley. One player who is no longer guaranteed a spot is Marcus Rashford.
Marcus Rashford injury opens door for others
Marcus Rashford hobbled off at Wembley at the end of normal time after a disappointing game in the semi-final.
He forced the corner for United’s second goal at the end of the first half but did little else, and was anonymous in the second 45 minutes.
Erik ten Hag has indulged him for much of the season despite poor form.
Last season he scored 30 goals. This season he may not even reach double figures. He has been stuck at eight goals, his last coming more than a month ago in extra-time against Liverpool.
Rashford has been one of Ten Hag’s most heavily utilised players during his time as manager at Old Trafford, selected 96 times in total.
It is unclear how long this injury will keep Rashford out for, but he is set to miss the Sheffield United game, and this gives teammates the chance to step in and impress.
While Rashford has the past reputation and track record, he should not be a shoe-in to start against City in the Cup Final. His form simply does not warrant him being an automatic pick.
Rashford alternatives
The most natural solution for Manchester United is to move Alejandro Garnacho back to the left wing.
This would see Antony come back in on the right. He had shown signs of recent improvement, impressive against Liverpool and Chelsea, before a woeful display against Coventry.
The alternative Manchester United fans really want to see given a chance is Amad, who was lively when he came on in the semi-final.
The Ivorian has not had a run in the side and an injury to Rashford could provide it. Another who is in the mix is Omari Forson, who Erik ten Hag likes, and also had a bright cameo at Wembley when he came on in extra-time.
If one of these players can really make their mark between now and the end of the season, then Marcus Rashford may not walk back into the side at Wembley.
It would be nice to see one of them push him, this might even lead to the England international raising his game.