Manchester United’s disastrous season is almost at an end. Come 6pm today, players and fans alike can draw a line under the most wretched of campaigns – but there’s still plenty of work to be done before then.
Having already missed out on the Champions League, United are still in danger of not even making the Europa League next season, with West Ham ready to pounce should they slip up at Crystal Palace. In a season which has fallen woefully short of expectations, the Reds have to ensure they at least salvage something from the wreckage.
Then there is of course personal pride for the players. Some would argue that dissipated a long time ago, but there is at least more incentive for them this weekend.
ALSO READ: Jaap Stam has shown Erik ten Hag what he could bring to Manchester United
Erik ten Hag will be in attendance at Selhurst Park, casting an eye over the players he’ll be working with next season. Practically everyone in the current squad has something to prove to their new boss, but one in particular has perhaps more on the line than most.
It’s been a poor season for Marcus Rashford. While his work off the pitch deserves endless credit, his efforts on it have fallen well short of what anyone would expect from him.
Twelve months ago, it would have been unthinkable that the academy graduate’s place in the squad could be in doubt. Today though, he faces arguably that most important game of his career so far.
With Cristiano Ronaldo out and Jadon Sancho doubtful according to Ralf Rangnick, as long as he’s fit, you would imagine Rashford will get the nod against Palace. It might not be in his preferred position, but with Ten Hag watching on, he needs to prove to his new manager he’s worthy of being in his plans next season.
United will be on the lookout for new forwards during the summer, but Rashford will have to prove why he should be at the front of the queue ahead of any new arrivals. At the moment, he’s certainly not in any position to claim that.
We already know that the 24-year-old is considering his future at Old Trafford after being left frustrated by falling down the pecking order this season. With his contract expiring next year – albeit with the option of an extra year on the table – that could be seen by some as a ploy to try and drive any talks over a new deal in his favour.
Unfortunately for Rashford though, his performances this season have certainly not helped his cause. The ball is now firmly in United’s court, and as they move into a new era, there’s no reason why they should be the first to blink.
If the England international features this afternoon, then it’s up to him to prove to his new manager that he still has a future at United. As far as he is concerned, the new season starts today.
All of the players will be given a clean slate under Ten Hag, which will be good news for most of them given what they’ve served up this season. For Rashford, it’s just the lifeline he needs to resurrect a career that has majorly stalled.
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
