Matthew Wilkinson
Tue 25 March 2025 11:40, UK
Aston Villa loanee Marcus Rashford might have been a surprise inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad – but he could have just played his way back into the Three Lions setup.
The 27-year-old hadn’t played for England since a friendly against Brazil in March 2024 prior to this recent international break, having been left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad completely.
However, Rashford’s loan spell at Villa has been enough to earn him a return to international football and it was an opportunity he grabbed with both hands.
Villa were well represented in England’s 3-0 thrashing of Latvia as Morgan Rogers and Ezri Konsa both started and shone bright, but it was the Man United castaway who made the biggest impact.
Morgan Rogers playing for Aston Villa
Morgan Rogers impressed for Englan (credit: Imago)
Marcus Rashford stepped up for England
Rashford was given the nod to start Tuchel’s first-ever game in charge of England against Albania (21 March) and while it was a comfortable 2-0 win, the former Chelsea boss was critical of his wingers.
Rashford certainly responded to that message as he started again against Latvia and went on to create six chances for his teammates, which was more than anyone on the pitch. [Fotmob]
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The controversial winger registered one shot on goal and boasted an 83 per cent pass accuracy rate while he made 14 touches inside Latvia’s box as he looked to influence the game in the final third.
Rashford even showcased his defensive work rate by winning 100 per cent of his tackles while he also made one recovery.
Match Stats Rashford
Minutes Played 79
Touches 69
Ground Duels Won 2/8 (25%)
Accurate Crosses 3/11 (27%)
Marcus Rashford’s stats vs. Latvia
Tuchel has a plethora of attacking options in this current crop of English players, but there are fewer who can naturally play from the left and that’s an opportunity that the Villa loanee could exploit.
Marcus Rashford smiling for Aston Villa
Aston Villa loanee Marcus Rashford shared his delight at England’s win (Credit: Imago)
Aston Villa need to retain Rashford permanently
Rashford might still be waiting for his first goal for Villa, but he has proven that there is still a player within him that is capable of delivering on the highest stage.
The United star has been a bright spark in claret and blue, winning over the Villa fanbase with his positive attitude since joining the club.
It is believed that a deal for Rashford could be made permanent this summer, with Unai Emery looking to strengthen his squad for next season.
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