The international break proved to be a turning point for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, who ended a frustrating six-month goal drought with a crucial strike in their 3-0 Premier League victory over Southampton.
The goal, which came in the 41st minute, was Rashford’s first since a 2-0 win over Everton on March 9th. He had endured a barren spell of 13 games without finding the back of the net, leading to criticism from fans and questions about his place in the team.
Manager Erik ten Hag, who had defended his decision to continue starting Rashford, believes the goal will act as a catalyst for the 26-year-old. “It’s very important,” Ten Hag said after the match. “For every striker, they want to be on the scoring list. Once the first is in, more is coming. Once a striker was talking about a ketchup bottle – once it’s going, it’s coming more.”
Rashford, who had a prolific 2022-23 season with 30 goals, struggled to replicate that form last season, netting just eight times across all competitions. He was left out of the England squad for Euro 2024 and didn’t receive a call-up during the recent international break.
Determined to turn things around, Rashford spent the break working with RH Elite Coaching, focusing particularly on finishing drills. The dedication paid off as he found the back of the net in a key moment for Manchester United.
His goal was followed by strikes from new signing Matthijs de Ligt and Alejandro Garnacho, while goalkeeper Andre Onana made a crucial penalty save against Cameron Archer. The victory gives United six points from their first four league matches.
Despite the crucial win, Ten Hag’s side face a quick turnaround as they host Barnsley in the League Cup on Tuesday.
