Marcus Rashford’s poor performance in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City at Wembley Stadium over the weekend was said to have surprised the players.
Despite capitulating and surrendering a comfortable 3-0 lead in regular time, United survived a major scare and eventually won the penalty shootout.
Rashford was one player who highlighted exactly how United capitulated.
The Englishman struggled in the match, as he has for much of the campaign. He tried to make a difference, but nothing worked for him.
Rashford repeatedly ran into blind alleys while dribbling and attempting to beat his man, allowing Coventry to recover possession. In attack, the 26-year-old lacked ideas and creativity, and he was a constant source of annoyance for the majority of fans.
Indeed, when Rashford was replaced by Erik ten Hag, a section of the crowd booed him, making no secret of their displeasure.
According to Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst, the Coventry players were surprised by Rashford’s lack of effectiveness, despite his exceptional talent.
“Coventry City players were startled by how Marcus Rashford faded during their FA Cup semi-final with Manchester United.”
“It is understood Coventry players felt Rashford was easily marginalised during the second half and that he could have got more involved in the game.”
“A Coventry player actually expressed sympathy with United fans who watch Rashford, conceding his ability could have decided the contest but that he was on the periphery.”
Rashford has faced criticism from Dutch football legend Marco van Basten.
Van Basten said of Rashford, a Carrington academy graduate, “I saw him play against Coventry.” What was the guy doing? “It was an unbelievable sight.”
“He made no runs, tried nothing with the ball, and passed every ball he received straight back. “He appears to be playing indoor football with his buddies.”
Rashford may have suffered an injury at Wembley Stadium, according to reports after the game. Ten Hag recently confirmed that the forward is unlikely to start for United against Sheffield United at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
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