Janice R. Andrews
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has defended his decision to bench Marcus Rashford during their Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on September 21. The decision surprised fans, especially given Rashford’s recent resurgence in form.
Rashford, who had scored three times in United’s last two games, including a brace in the Carabao Cup against Barnsley, was left out of the starting line-up. Despite coming off the bench for the last 30 minutes, the 26-year-old English forward struggled to make a difference, as United were held to a goalless draw.
Many fans questioned Ten Hag’s choice, considering Rashford had recently ended a 13-game Premier League goal drought with a strike against Southampton. His goal drought had also seen him dropped from the England squad for Euro 2024. However, Ten Hag’s decision to start Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo instead of Rashford was part of a planned rotation strategy.
“No, it was not a difficult decision because we have to rotate. We have so many games to cover, and also, we have to give Alejandro games,” Ten Hag explained in his pre-match interview.
The tactical gamble didn’t pay off, with the Red Devils failing to secure the three points. Rashford’s introduction in the 61st minute failed to ignite the team’s attack.
Meanwhile, there was controversy involving Lisandro Martinez during the match. The Argentine defender avoided a red card after a dangerous two-footed tackle, which raised eyebrows, but the Premier League later explained their decision not to send him off.
Rashford will be eager to reclaim his starting spot as Manchester United looks to improve their form in the coming fixtures.
