MARCUS IS NOT A KID ANY MORE

GARETH SOUTHGATE has claimed he is “protecting” Marcus Rashford after making an incredible U-turn on his England future. Rashford, 19, was included in the senior squad for the World Cup qualifier in Scotland and friendly in France but NOT in the Under-21s for this summer’s Euro Championship in Poland. That represents a big victory for Jose Mourinho in his club-versuscountry battle with England as the Manchester United boss insisted publicly he should not be involved in both. And it means a climbdown on the part of Southgate (above) as he insisted during his reign as Under-21s boss that young players needed tournament experience as it was important for their development. But Southgate, who claims that Rashford needs a rest, now admits he has changed his mind in the last few weeks and regards him as a senior player. The England boss said: “He’s in the senior squad on merit and has been for a year. “He had one game with the Under-21s when I was there in September and he was outstanding but he’s not really been a part of the Under-21 squad. “His performances warrant him being in the senior squad. The question is: could he have gone with the Under-21s afterwards? In my opinion, no. He’s a 19-year-old player who’s had an exceptional season and by then he will have had virtually 60 matches. “Somebody has to protect him. Somebody has to manage the development of a young player.” Southgate reckons that Rashford’s development has elevated him to a senior player, even though Under-21s boss Aidy Boothroyd said publicly he wanted to pick him for next month. “His performances have been very, very good,” added Southgate. “It would be inconceivable not to put him in the senior squad.” There was also a recall for Stoke keeper Jack Butland – the most likely successor in Southgate’s mind to Joe Hart – and a call-up for Tottenham’s Kieran Trippier (inset, top). Nathaniel Clyne is an injury doubt while Aaron Cresswell has come in with Luke Shaw and Danny Rose both out.