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Coventry City players were reportedly left shocked by Marcus Rashford’s poor display when the two sides met at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final over the weekend.
Despite capitulating and surrendering a comfortable 3-0 advantage in regular time, United survived a huge scare and ultimately prevailed in the penalty shootout.
One player who highlighted just the manner of United’s capitulation was Rashford.
The Englishman struggled during the match as he has for large parts of the campaign. He tried to make a difference but nothing really came off for him.
On multiple occasions whenever he embarked on a dribble and attempted to beat his man, Rashford just ran into blind alleys only to cede possession back to Coventry. In attack, the 26-year-old seemed bereft of any ideas or creativity and was a constant source of annoyance for most of the fans.
Indeed, Rashford was booed by a section of supporters – who made no secret of their displeasure with him – when he was taken off by Erik ten Hag.
According to Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst, the Coventry players were equally surprised by just how ineffective Rashford was considering his great ability and talent.
“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.”
This comes amidst criticism levelled at Rashford by Dutch football legend Marco van Basten.
Van Basten said about the Carrington academy graduate, “I saw Rashford play against Coventry. What was this guy doing? It was an unbelievable sight.”
“Didn’t make any runs, didn’t try anything on the ball, passing every ball he received straight back. He looks like he is playing indoor football with his buddies.”
It emerged after the final whistle at Wembley that Rashford may have picked up an injury. Ten Hag recently confirmed that the forward is a major doubt to line up for United against Sheffield United on Wednesday at Old Trafford.
