‘No issue’ as Rashford misses Man Utd training ill after nightclub visit

Robin Bairner

• 26 Jan 2024 18:22 GMT
• 3 min read

Marcus Rashford missed Manchester United training on Friday due to illness just 36 hours after the club believe he visited a nightclub in Belfast.

The Daily Mail reports that Man Utd believe that a video circulating showing Rashford entering the establishment was taken on Wednesday and have “no issue” with the incident as it came before a scheduled day off.

While the academy product is not under fire from his club, it raises further questions over the 26-year-old’s commitment to cause.

Rashford has endured a difficult campaign and during a Premier League encounter with Newcastle, he found himself severely criticised because of a lack of work ethic as United slumped to a 1-0 defeat at the beginning of December.

His overall performance this season has been thoroughly disappointing, with just four goals scored in 26 matches across all competitions, while he has also chipped in with six assists.

He has appeared a shadow of the player who tore up the Premier League after the World Cup last term.

Rashford remains precious for Man Utd

Rashford, though, remains a precious player for Man Utd, with an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €77 million and a contract that runs until 2028. Indeed, it is the contract extension he signed in the summer that has fueled the growth of his ETV.

His value to the squad has only increased following news of Anthony Martial’s injury, which promises to keep the Frenchman out for up to 10 weeks.

Rashford is now second in line for the No.9 role behind Rasmus Hojlund, with Ten Hag admitting that the winger could be used as a centre-forward after confirming no new arrivals in that role this month.

“I looked into options but there is no space for Financial Fair Play,” Ten Hag said on Friday.

“Of course, Rashford can play as a striker; we have some other alternatives but yes, Martial will be out for weeks.”

Rashford is a doubt for this week’s FA Cup encounter with Newport on Sunday due to his illness.