Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford – probably already wary of the clear handwriting on the wall like his team mates – has sent a message to Erik ten Hag ahead to show he is already putting in the hard yards to get himself ready for the new Premier League season.
After having clearly struggled to make an impact at United last season, the 24-year-old – who had been accused by some for having been more invested in his off-pitch charity projects – grabbed just five goals and was reduced to mere cameo appearances under previous interim gaffer Ralf Rangnick. He had missed the start of the campaign having undergone shoulder surgery in the summer, and concerned observers noted that his confidence appeared to be at an all-time low. In fact, when push came to shove, following United’s heavy 4-1 derby defeat to Manchester City, it was revealed that the forward was re-evaluating his future at Old Trafford.
However, the appointment of Ten Hag seems so far to be the tonic that the squad badly needs, with Rashford apparently keen to reclaim his place in the United starting XI. Being suitably charged for now, the 24-year-old sent a message to his new boss via a video uploaded to social media where he is seen being put through his paces.
Rashford took the initiative to caption the post: “Just the start.”
Needless to say, both Ten Hag and United supporters will be hoping that the academy graduate will be back to his former best form next season.