Marcus Rashford has hit back at his Manchester United critics and those who have questioned his commitment to the club.
11.02.2024 - 16:23 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reiterated to his players that every game from now until the end of the season must be approached 'like a cup final'.
After winning successive games in the Premier League, United have the wind in their sails and only one change has been made to the starting line-up after victory against West Ham.
Lisandro Martinez sustained a knee injury in that match and he's set to be sidelined for at least eight weeks, which has seen Harry Maguire replace him in the team. Maguire will play alongside Raphael Varane and the pair are starting their first Premier League game together.
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The remainder of the team has stayed the same. Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes start in midfield and the trio have developed a strong understanding in recent weeks.
There should also be opportunities for Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford because Villa head into this game after showing glimmers of vulnerability in the last month.
United are currently sixth in the table and a win against Villa, who are in fifth position, would provide hope that qualifying for the Champions League is possible this season.
Ten Hag spoke to MUTV ahead of kick-off and said: "Yeah, it's the case [every game is like a final] because we have to catch up. So we are improving, but today we must make the next step, another final and we have to improve.
"Everyone, the whole team, every individual, we have to step up. First you need good organisation, then get into the duels and win them. We have to challenge them but also on the ball.
"We have to be secure, create spaces
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