Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford may be forced to remain patient before earning his first start at this World Cup.
According to the Daily Mail, Rashford is “managing a niggle” and could once again be restricted to a substitute role when the Three Lions face Ghana in their second group-stage fixture on Tuesday.
The 28-year-old entered the pitch in the 72nd minute against Croatia as a replacement for Anthony Gordon.
He wasted no time making his presence felt, scoring England’s fourth goal in a thrilling 4-2 victory.
Rashford reportedly felt something in his glute area and he did not feature when England beat Sporting Kansas City 5-1 in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Thursday.
The United academy graduate is currently expected to return to Old Trafford once the tournament concludes.
Barcelona opted against activating the £26m purchase option in his loan agreement despite the forward enjoying a highly successful season with the club.
Rashford produced 14 goals and 14 assists for the Spanish champions as they cruised to another La Liga title.
His impressive campaign enhanced his reputation, but it was not enough to convince Barcelona to make the move permanent.
It was recently revealed that he has a £40m clause in his contract at the Red Devils.
Upon returning to Old Trafford, Rashford’s salary is expected to rise to around £320,000 per week.
INEOS have worked aggressively to lower the wage bill and create a more sustainable financial model.
Reintegrating Rashford into the first-team squad on those terms would be viewed internally as a significant setback.
United will be hoping Rashford enjoys a successful tournament to encourage potential suitors to pursue a permanent transfer rather than another temporary loan deal.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com