Erik ten Hag will ‘deal with’ Marcus Rashford after latest Man United controversy

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According to the official statement from the club, Marcus Rashford was unable to participate in Manchester United's FA Cup game against Newport on Sunday due to illness.

Erik ten Hag has stated that he will address the issue after it was reported that Rashford was seen at a Belfast nightclub recently.

The reports regarding Rashford's situation were not acknowledged by United. They informed that Rashford remained at Carrington to practice and recuperate, but did not provide further information.

Last Friday, the manager Erik ten Hag reported that Rashford was suffering from an illness and he would assess his recovery before deciding whether he would be included in the squad for the FA Cup fourth-round game against Newport from League Two.

However, when questioned about Rashford not being present before the game began, Ten Hag suggested that there may be additional factors involved and stated, "It is a private matter. I will handle it."

After scoring twice in the first 13 minutes, Ten Hag witnessed his team barely escape a potent challenge from Newport of League Two, who fought back and equalized at 2-2 in South Wales.

"He notified us of being unwell," Ten Hag reiterated following their 4-2 victory. "Anything else regarding this situation will be dealt with internally. As the coach, I will handle it along with the team."

Marcus Rashford was seen speaking with his manager, Erik ten Hag, in a photo taken by Martin Rickett/PA.

During the earlier part of the season, Ten Hag made a statement that he found Rashford's participation in birthday festivities after United's defeat against Manchester City as inadmissible.

"I know about it and I discussed it with him," mentioned Ten Hag in November. "It's not acceptable and I made sure to inform him of that. He expressed regret and that's the end of the matter."

Ten Hag has had issues with multiple players during his time as coach, with Rashford being just the latest. Previous to Rashford, both Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho also faced conflicts with the Dutch coach, ultimately leading to their departures from the club.

Upon his arrival at United in 2022, Ten Hag discovered a negative culture that did not benefit the team. Throughout his time at Old Trafford, he has faced challenges regarding discipline.

Sancho, who didn't quite fit in with United, went back to Borussia Dortmund on loan recently. This happened because he had a disagreement with the Dutch coach.

When questioned about Rashford possibly being a part of a problematic attitude in the soccer world, Ten Hag declined to comment. Instead, he reminded everyone that they had already discussed the matter and focused on the fact that they played well in the game. He also expressed a desire to move forward from the subject.

The pundit on Match of the Day, Alan Shearer, suggested that it would be better to address any problematic situation sooner rather than later, to make sure that the skills and abilities of Rashford are not wasted.

The ex-England captain expressed admiration for Marcus Rashford's impressive talent. He recalled an incident from last season when Rashford received punishment for showing up late to a meeting which resulted in him missing a game. This showed his level of discipline.

There is a certain issue at hand, either regarding his personal life or his affiliation with the football club since he cannot continue with his current behavior. It is unacceptable for him to squander his skills. He requires effective leadership and guidance, someone who can approach him and assertively state: 'You will experience immense remorse if you reach the end of your professional career without fulfilling your full potential.'

"You can't keep that and it's not necessary. You must address it immediately - scoring 30 goals last season compared to only four this season."

Whenever I observe his performance, it often seems like he carries an immense burden and for someone with such extraordinary skills, this issue requires prompt resolution. It cannot be neglected, as his talent is too valuable to squander.

Further coverage provided by the Press Association.