"He has to do more" – Patrick Vieira points finger at Manchester United superstar's performance during draw with Crystal Palace
Arsenal great Patrick Vieira has slammed Marcus Rashford's sub-par performance in Manchester United's 0-0 Premier League away draw against Crystal Palace this Saturday (September 21).
Rashford, who scored two goals in his team's 7-0 EFL Cup win over Barnsley past Tuesday, was benched in the Red Devils' recent league clash. Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo were picked as the wingers on either side of number nine Joshua Zirkzee by Erik ten Hag.
After replacing Zirkzee in the 61st minute of the match at Crystal Palace, Rashford failed to produce an impactful display. The 26-year-old completed six of 10 passes, registered zero shots, created zero chances, and won two of three overall duels in the clash at Selhurst Park.
Speaking on NBC Sports after the end of the game, Vieira was asked whether the decision to drop Rashford was a mistake. The three-time Premier League winner replied (h/t Metro):
"No, I think the manager [would have been] looking at the week of training and that would've helped to him to make a better decision. I think Rashford should ask himself why he doesn't start at Manchester United and I think he has to do more because the manager, the club expect more from him."
Suggesting that Ten Hag was right in his choice, Vieira concluded:
"When he came on today I think he was disappointed and I think that didn't help him. When a player like him is coming from the bench, he has to make a point and making a point is showing that the manager was wrong not to start him. And I think when you look at his performance today, I think the manager was right not to start him."
Rashford is next likely to play in Manchester United's UEFA Europa League match against Twente at Old Trafford on Wednesday (September 25).
Manchester United keen to sign teenager
According to GiveMeSport, Manchester United are currently keeping close tabs on Southampton winger Tyler Dibling with the intention of signing him in the future. On the other hand, the Saints are aiming to tie the 18-year-old attacker down to a new long-term contract.
Dibling, who is in the final year of his current deal, has opened the 2024-25 season on a good note. He has registered one goal and two assists in seven appearances across competitions, including three starts.
Should Dibling secure a move to Manchester United, he could prove to be a clever signing for them. He could emerge as a potential replacement for Antony, who has struggled to live up to expectations of late.