Why Rashford is the best striking solution for Ten Hag in short term

Manchester United striker’s self-assurance has returned and West Ham’s defence will be fearful of facing him on Sunday

THE RIGHT CHOICE: Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo is substituted for Marcus Rashford during the Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Pic: Martin Rickett/PA Wire.

When Marcus Rashford made his Manchester United debut under Louis van Gaal in 2016 he was seen as a striking stopgap, thrust into the limelight due to a lack of options. He quickly solved the problem. The England international is back in the No 9 position as a short-term fix for another Dutchman, as United and Rashford look to reap the rewards of a carefree footballer.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s penchant for melodrama has helped take the focus away from the man impressing in the position the Portuguese thinks he is entitled to. Rashford’s self-assurance has returned: he looks like a man confident in his own ability once again and West Ham’s defence will be fearful of facing him on Sunday.