- Marcus Rashford has only scored seven goals in the Premier League this season
- He is joined by Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling as notable absentees
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Marcus Rashford has broken his silence after being snubbed by Gareth Southgate for the England manager’s 33-man provisional squad on Tuesday.
Rashford has endured a difficult 2023-24 campaign for Manchester United, with just seven goals and two assists in the Premier League under Erik ten Hag, after a hugely impressive 2022-23.
That disappointing campaign has now seen him not even make the Three Lions boss’ training camp squad ahead of this summer’s European Championship.
He wasn’t the only big name to miss the cut, as Jordan Henderson, Reece James, Nick Pope, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell were also not selected.
Rashford took to Instagram immediately after the announcement to offer his opinion on the snub and remained professional despite the disappointment, in a great testament to his maturity and character.
Marcus Rashford posted a 14-word statement on Instagram about the squad announcement
Rashford has endured a difficult campaign for the Red Devils with just seven Premier League goals.
Ajax’s Jordan Henderson is another notable name left out of England’s Euro squad
“I wish Gareth and the boys all the best for the upcoming tournament,” Rashford wrote on his social media channel.
Southgate, who has made 57 of his 60 international appearances for the 26-year-old, revealed the decision was difficult but insisted Rashford’s omission was solely due to his performances on the field.
“Of course they are difficult decisions,” said the England coach. “We are talking about players who are very good and who have been an important part of what we have done for several years.
“With Marcus I feel like the players in that area of the pitch have had better seasons, it’s as simple as that.”
Southgate’s provisional 33-man squad included 12 forwards, many of whom are capable of playing in the left-wing position he normally occupies.
Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon has enjoyed an impressive campaign at St James’ Park and has scored 21 Premier League goals. Along with Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, who has also had a frustrating campaign, Southgate has two proven options on that flank.
The decision has divided opinion, however, many on social media have supported Southgate’s decision.
“I know a lot of people will disagree, but I feel like he (Southgate) is absolutely right about this,” wrote one fan on X, formerly Twitter.
Fans praised Southgate’s boldness and believe the decision could “wake up” Rashford
‘I honestly respect Southgate’s decision. “Rashford underperformed this season and should not be called up for it,” said another.
‘The best thing Southgate has done. Maybe now he will wake up at club level,” wrote one.
‘There is no problem with Rashford not going. Explain to me why Grealish is,” commented another.
