Ten Hag sweating over Rashford fitness ahead of Newcastle trip

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag and striker Marcus Rashford | Photo Credit: Robbie Jay Barratt (AMA/Getty Images)

FOOTBALL Ten Hag sweating over Rashford fitness ahead of Newcastle trip

Shafic Kiyaga 20:17 - 01.04.2023

The 25-year-old forward had missed England's recent European Championship qualifying matches due to a knock he picked up during United's FA Cup quarter-final win over Fulham.

Manchester United's top scorer this season, Marcus Rashford, is facing uncertainty over his return to action ahead of the team's trip to Newcastle United in the Premier League this weekend.

The 25-year-old forward had missed England's recent European Championship qualifying matches due to a knock he picked up during United's FA Cup quarter-final win over Fulham.

Although Rashford has returned to training, manager Erik Ten Hag stated that a late decision will be taken on his availability for the Newcastle game.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the clash, Ten Hag said, "I have good hope, he trained but he had to do some treatment, he had to do some individual training.”

“Today he joined in with the group. We have one more day, so I have a good hope he will be available."

Rashford has been in scintillating form this season, scoring 30 goals for both club and country.

His performances have seen him linked with a move to top European sides, but Ten Hag has expressed his desire to keep the club's talisman, with talks ongoing over a contract extension. Rashford's current deal ends next season.

Meanwhile, injured French forward Anthony Martial could make his return for the first time in two months.

Although Newcastle has the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, having conceded only 19 goals in 26 games, Ten Hag expressed concern over their time-wasting tactics.

"We know that they are a tough team to break down, but we need to focus on our own game and play with intensity and purpose," he said.

United are currently third in the league standings with 50 points, but fifth-placed Newcastle could overtake them on goal difference if they win at St James' Park.