Erik ten Hag defends Marcus Rashford insisting his form is ‘progressing’ in the wake of criticism despite dropping him for 4-3 Chelsea defeat

Erik ten Hag insists Marcus Rashford is motivated to help Manchester United enjoy a successful end to the season despite fresh criticism of the England star.

Rashford was left on the bench during Thursday’s 4-3 loss to Chelsea and made little impression after replacing Rasmus Hojlund in the 66th minute.

Despite writing a candid article on The Players’ Tribune website in February emphasizing his commitment to his hometown club in the wake of an infamous tequila binge in Belfast, the 26-year-old has come under intense scrutiny a once again.

Criticism from former United players Gary Neville, Roy Keane and Rio Ferdinand led Rashford’s brother and manager Dwaine Maynard to accuse the pundits of making clickbait comments.

Ten Hag claimed his decision to put Rashford on the bench at Stamford Bridge was to keep him fresh for Liverpool on Sunday. He defended the player’s commitment and said Rashford will be motivated to help United fight for a Champions League place and lift the FA Cup, as well as reaching peak form for this summer’s European Championship.

Rashford came on as a second-half substitute at Stamford Bridge, but was criticized for his performance.

Ten Hag singled out former United player Gary Neville when defending Rashford

“I don’t know what Gary Neville was saying,” said the United manager. “But lately his (Rashford’s) form is progressing.

‘He has great motivation because he wants to be successful with us. He wants to win trophies and score goals. But he wants to win and contribute, and we have a chance with the FA Cup.

“He wants to fight for a place in the Champions League and the European Championship is coming up. So his motivation should be high. Before Brentford he scored three goals in three games.