Marcus Rashford scored his first goal since leaving Manchester United to join Aston Villa on loan.
After Marcus Rashford was frozen out by Ruben Amorim, it felt inevitable that he would leave in January. Eventually, Marcus Rashford signed for Villa until the end of the season.
There were huge question marks over Rashford’s poor attitude at United with Amorim criticising his effort in training on several occasions.
But Rashford has made a strong impression at Villa and he is now enjoying a strong run of form.
Rashford was recalled to the England squad by Thomas Tuchel and in his first game back from international duty he has now opened up his scoring account at Villa.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Man United fans react as Marcus Rashford scores twice for Aston Villa
United’s last hope for a trophy this season lies with the Europa League. Meanwhile, Rashford is chasing FA Cup and Champions League glory with Villa.
On Sunday afternoon, Villa booked their spot at Wembley by beating Preston 3-0 in the FA Cup quarter-finals. After a goalless first half, Rashford scored twice in five minutes to open his account for Villa.
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Despite Rashford’s impressive performance, United fans on social media were quick to dismiss the idea of him returning to Old Trafford. Instead, supporters were pointing out the level of opposition.
“Looks like Rashford has found his level. No goals in Premier League for Villa, plays Preston and gets his first Villa goal,” one fan wrote on X.
A second fan echoed that statement: “Seems like Rashford has found his level.”
Others took a swipe at Rashford’s attitude problems while at United: “Man United bad once again. Rashford had endless support from the fans despite two poor seasons and obvious issues around attitude and effort, his name was sang every single game by the Stretford end, there’s only one person to blame for his failings at United and that’s him.”
Another fan sarcastically added: “At his best when he plays against championship opposition”
Others saw Rashford’s performance simply as a way for United to bank more money from him in the summer: “Let’s hope Rashford keeps increasing his value and a bigger club comes in for him in the summer”.
“Happy with what Rashford is doing. United would sell him for a proper fee now cause nothing is letting him back with Ruben still in charge,” one fan added.
Marcus Rashford stats for Aston Villa vs Preston
One thing not up for debate is that Rashford is playing better since leaving United – much to the frustration of fans.
His confidence appears to be returning, and his match stats against Preston show that he enjoyed his best game in claret so far.
Minutes played 81
Goals 2
Shots attempted 5
Touches 33
Passes completed 93% (14/15)
Key passes 3
Big chances created 2
Duels won 14% (1/7)
Marcus Rashford match stats for Aston Villa vs Preston.
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Rashford started up front for Villa and his attacking numbers are very impressive, with five shots and two goals to his name. He held up the ball well and only misplaced one pass in his 81 minutes on the pitch.
However, his defensive numbers continue to lack. He only won one of his seven duels and completed just one tackle.