Marcus Rashford has returned to his best form at Aston Villa after a turbulent spell at Manchester United.
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Marcus Rashford in action for Aston Villa.
Marcus Rashford in action for Aston Villa.(Image: Getty Images)
Aston Villa captain John McGinn reckons that Marcus Rashford has re-found his smile after joining the club from Manchester United.
The Scotland international was full of praise for the 27-year-old, claiming he put in his strongest performance for Villa during the 3-0 win over Club Brugge last week. During the FA Cup win over Cardiff City, Rashford created six 'big' chances - which was as many as he did throughout his time at Old Trafford this season.
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Marco Asensio, on loan from PSG, has also been a breath of fresh air at Villa Park - and McGinn says they are two players "every club in the country would take" if they could.
"Marcus and Marco showed glimpses which have proved they are at the highest level," McGinn told The Mirror.
"They have maybe lost their way, for certain reasons, but what they will both get from us is love and support and teammates who will graft for them.
"We want them to be happy again. And every day that you see them, they have a smile on their face. That's when you know footballers are happy and at their best.
"In that game against Club Brugge, Marcus played his best game in that second half and he was a constant threat.
"If we can get those two firing, they're a pair that every club in the country would take."
Villa head coach Unai Emery has also been pleased with Rashford's impact at the club. "Of course, I am very happy how they played and how they [Rashford and Asensio] are adapting to us," he said.
"Each one is playing in his position, trying to feel comfortable. And the players are understanding as well where are the spaces are to use them and trying to overcome the difficulties with the opponent they were facing us."
Rashford, who left United to join Villa on loan during January's transfer window, received a call-up to the England squad under new manager Thomas Tuchel last week. He last took to the international stage in March 2024 before missing out on the Euros that year.
The Three Lions will play Albania and Latvia on Friday night (March 21) and Monday night (March 24) respectively.
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