Marcus Rashford’s dismal performance in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City at Wembley Stadium over the weekend was said to have surprised the team.
Despite capitulating and squandering a comfortable 3-0 lead in normal time, United avoided a major scare and eventually won the penalty shootout.
Rashford was one player who demonstrated just how United capitulated.
The Englishman struggled throughout the contest, as he has for most of the year. He attempted to make a difference, but nothing worked for him.
Rashford often went into blind alleys while dribbling and attempting to beat his man, allowing Coventry to recover possession. In attack, the 26-year-old lacked ideas and inventiveness, and he was a continual cause of dissatisfaction for the majority of supporters.
Indeed, when Rashford was replaced by Erik ten Hag, a segment of the crowd booed him, making no secret of their unhappiness.
According to Manchester Evening News writer Samuel Luckhurst, the Coventry players were similarly startled by Rashford’s ineffectiveness despite his immense skill and aptitude.
“Coventry City players were startled by how Marcus Rashford faded during their FA Cup semi-final with Manchester United.”
“It is understood Coventry players felt Rashford was easily marginalised during the second half and that he could have got more involved in the game.”
“A Coventry player actually expressed sympathy with United fans who watch Rashford, conceding his ability could have decided the contest but that he was on the periphery.”
Van Basten added of Rashford, a Carrington academy graduate, “I saw him play against Coventry.” What was the man doing? “It was an unbelievable sight.”
“He made no runs, tried nothing with the ball, and passed every ball he received straight back. “He appears to be playing indoor football with his buddies.”
Rashford may have suffered an injury at Wembley Stadium, according to reports following the game. Ten Hag recently acknowledged that the attacker is a serious doubt to suit up for United against Sheffield United on Wednesday at Old Trafford.
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