Rash: I’m happy in Under-21s
MARCUS RASHFORD is ready to spearhead England’s attack at this summer’s European Under-21 Championships.
The teenage Manchester United striker believes that tournament football can play a big part in his development and is ready to answer a call from Aidy Boothroyd if he is needed in Poland in June.
Rashford’s comments may not go down well with Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.
But the 19-year-old said: “It is up to the coaching staff and the managers to decide if I go to that.
“But if I do go, I’ll be approaching it with the same attitude as I do to the seniors. It is exciting.
“Getting tournament experience is massive, as long as everything is aiming towards the longterm objective.
“We want to win trophies, so, whatever we have to do to get to that – whether it is going down to the under-21s to gain the experience – everyone is happy to do it.” Rashford has already won seven full caps for his country – and was part of the squad that suffered Euro 2016 humiliation at the hands of Iceland last year.
But he was one of the few players to return from France with his reputation enhanced.
Rashford’s progress this season hasn’t been so smooth and he has had to remain patient under United boss Mourinho.
And he is likely to be on the bench today when Gareth Southgate’s senior team face Lithuania in a World Cup qualifier.
But his attitude to the prospect of being called up for the junior Euro tournament will delight the England boss.
Rashford said: “It’s been a season full of ups and downs, but everyone has stuck together and I think it has been a good season.
“All my focus is just on trying to improve for the future and to make history for my club and the country.”