Erik ten Hag has called on Marcus Rashford to keep his focus to ensure he maintains his goalscoring form.
Manchester United striker Rashford has 12 goals this season, including four in his last four games, and is back to his best after scoring just five last term. Despite his impressive return this season, Ten Hag feels Rashford has a tendency to lose his concentration at times and has urged the 25-year-old to stay focused throughout.
“First of all, keep the focus always,” said Ten Hag. ”It doesn't matter if you are in the game or not in the game - keep focusing on scoring the goal. A player like Marcus but others in our squad – Anthony Martial is the same - when they stay in the game, mentally, focused, 100 per cent concentration, they have the skills and only need one moment to change the game in a positive way.
“If Marcus develops that skill, he will score more goals and contribute to a successful season.”
Ten Hag also revealed he moved for Crystal Palace goalkeeper Jack Butland to ensure United have cover for David De Gea, after Martin Dubravka was recalled from his loan spell by Newcastle.
“Martin was recalled and we need three experienced goalkeepers,” said Ten Hag. “We have some young ones and they do well, but we have so many games so you need three good goalies in training.
“But also, when problems are coming, you need experience in goal to get your goals, to get what you are aiming for.
“What he's bringing? I'm really happy with David, it's quite clear he's our No.1, he's a really good performer, but there's always something that can happen with David as well.
“You have to be prepared for that so you don't have one. Last year I had a situation with Ajax - we had three goalies injured.
“You don't want to play for trophies and you have to put in a young keeper - you can't expect it and also it kill your season. That's what you have to be prepared for."
United host Everton in the FA Cup tomorrow and Ten Hag said he has not given thought to ending the club's six-year wait for a trophy.
The Europa League was United's last trophy in 2017 and Ten Hag said: “I don't think about that. In this stage of the season you're not looking at that.
“You have to get into a position where you can win something and I know the season is taking a long time, especially with such a lot of games ahead. Then, don't get distracted because, when you think too far ahead, you get distracted.
“So focus on the team progress, team development, it's all about that. We have many elements in our game we have to improve.”
