Why United need Rashford to restore their fear factor

SIX months before the World Cup, Marcus rashford has an excellent opportunity to prove why he should be starting for england in russia.

Injuries to romelu lukaku and Zlatan Ibrahimovic mean that rashford will be leading the line for Manchester united against everton this afternoon.

Jose Mourinho has to let rashford off the leash and give him licence to terrorise defenders with his blistering pace.

Watching Ibrahimovic running recently, you could tell that something was not quite right. I am sure Michael Keane and Phil Jagielka would rather be facing him than rashford at Goodison Park.

When it comes to the pecking order of Manchester united centre forwards, rashford should not be behind a 36-year-old who has just returned from injury.

even before Ibrahimovic and lukaku were ruled out, united have looked sluggish of late. With rashford leading an attacking trio including Anthony Martial and Jesse lingard, he can restore united’s fear factor.

It reminds me of when rashford first burst on to the scene under louis van Gaal. united were in a slump but rashford injected some much-needed excitement.

If he does the same in the weeks ahead, rashford will seriously improve his World Cup credentials. So far, Harry Kane and raheem Sterling are ahead of him in terms of who will start england’s opening World Cup match against Tunisia.

now is the time for rashford to remind Gareth Southgate of his immense ability. WHAT an important result for Swansea at Watford. When they were 1-0 down they looked cut adrift but this victory gives them real hope. They need improvements but there is no use buying mercenaries with relegation clauses. Swansea should use Carlos Carvalhal’s knowledge of the Championship to sign some gems. Those players will be proud to play for Swansea and will seize their chance to prove themselves in the Premier League. If they do not beat the drop, they will still be wellequipped for a promotion push next season.