- Erik ten Hag was not surprised by Marcus Rashford missing out for England
- Man United boss said both he and Jack Grealish were ‘lacking’ for their clubs
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Erik ten Hag has revealed he was not surprised to see Marcus Rashford left out of England’s 26-man squad for Euro 2024.
After enjoying his most prolific campaign to date in the Dutchman’s first season in charge at Old Trafford, Rashford struggled to maintain his form last season.
Rashford’s season reached its nadir in January when he missed training before an FA Cup tie after being spotted during an all-day drinking session in Belfast.
Ten Hag stuck by the 26-year-old but Rashford continue to falter in front of goal, netting just four league goals after the turn of the year as United slumped to their worst-ever Premier League finish.
Despite his inconsistent performances, Rashford’s omission from Gareth Southgate‘s provisional squad ahead of Euro 2024, came as a surprise to many, particularly as the England boss has often been criticised for playing favourites with his stalwarts.
Southgate made yet more bold decisions as he whittled down his squad to 26 earlier this month, with the likes of Jack Grealish and James Maddison missing out on the basis of their club form.
‘Grealish and Rashford were both lacking this season.’ Ten Hag said on Dutch TV channel NOS.
‘And when you are lacking, you risk not getting picked for your country.’
Ten Hag also tipped England to go all the way in Germany, noting the strength in attacking talent available to Southgate.
‘England has a fantastic squad, they are favorites for a reason. They have the best midfield of all countries in the Euros.
‘They’ve got Harry Kane as their striker. On the wings they have incredible amount of quality.’