Maguire backs Rashford to thrive after 'rough ride' as United star returns with a threat

Marcus Rashford marked his first Manchester United start in 20 months with a lively display in Sunday’s 5-2 Premier League victory over Ipswich, and teammate Harry Maguire says the club are delighted to have “a great asset” back at Old Trafford.

Rashford had been dropped by manager Ruben Amorim before loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona. The La Liga champions held a £26m option to sign him permanently but chose not to exercise it, paving the way for his return to United.

Maguire was quick to defend Rashford’s record at the club, acknowledging that the forward had borne the brunt of criticism during a difficult period. “You’ve got to remember that Marcus has had a wonderful career for this club,” the defender said. “When the bad seasons come, everyone piles on, and that’s part and parcel of playing at this club. Marcus has been part of a rough ride for Manchester United, and when that happens and the team doesn’t deliver, players get dug out — and he was one of them.”

Rashford had reached a career-best 30 goals in the 2022-23 season but struggled for form and favour over the following 18 months. Maguire argued that the wider instability at United made it harder for any individual to consistently perform. “When you’re not winning Premier Leagues year after year, it’s not easy to mingle into that group and play well,” he said.

The centre-back was encouraged by what he has seen since Rashford’s return. “It’s been really good since he came in. He’s trained really well and, if Marcus wants to be here and wants to work and wants to improve and wants to help the team, of course we’re willing to have him in the squad.”

Maguire added that Rashford’s physical condition stood out immediately. “He’s come back, he’s trained over the summer — you can tell — and he’s come back really fit and sharp. We’re excited to have him and hopefully he can chip in with goals.”

On the evidence of Sunday’s performance against Ipswich, Maguire believes there is more to come. “He was a threat constantly, and I think he could still do a lot more — and I think he’ll say that himself. If we keep him fit, keep him happy, and he stays driven and hungry, he is a great asset to have.”