Manchester United will face Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford in the Premier League this weekend.
Both teams will be looking to make a statement after enduring disappointing starts to the 2026-27 campaign.
United have collected just five points from their opening five league games, while Spurs sit rock-bottom of the table with only two points.
United head coach Michael Carrick will be hoping Marcus Rashford can finally step up and repay the faith that has been placed in him by everyone at the club.
It looked like Rashford would not wear the famous red shirt again after his successful loan stint at Barcelona last campaign.
However, the La Liga champions ultimately decided against triggering the £26 million buy clause included in the loan agreement.
Carrick was willing to reintegrate Rashford into his plans after watching him rise through the United ranks, both as a former teammate and later as a first-team coach.
When the Red Devils found themselves 2-0 down at half-time, Carrick turned to Rashford and unleashed him on the left wing, but the England international could not inspire a comeback.
Since then, the 28-year-old has started every game for United except their UEFA Champions League clash against Sabah FK.
Rashford has looked dangerous in flashes and shown glimpses of his ability to create opportunities, but he is still waiting for his first goal or assist of the season.
His performances have also lacked consistency, with his influence often dropping noticeably in the second half.
Amad Diallo is now closing in on a return after missing the start of the campaign through injury, adding further pressure on Rashford.
He is unlikely to start against Spurs after missing the friendly clash with Lausanne-Sport during the international break.
We believe that the Tottenham game could be the final chance for Rashford to save his starting XI spot.
Carrick trusted Diallo as the right winger during his spell as an interim manager this year.
His arrival could allow Bryan Mbeumo to move into a central role, with Matheus Cunha potentially shifting across to the left wing.
If Rashford can finally get his name on the scoresheet against Tottenham, Carrick may feel the United academy graduate is beginning to turn his fortunes around.
Stats from Fotmob.com