Erik Ten Hag reveals why Marcus Rashford was dropped for Man United’s clash with Crystal Palace… and claims that benching star was ‘not a difficult decision’ despite forward scoring three goals in a week

Erik Ten Hag has explained his decision to drop Marcus Rashford for Manchester United‘s clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

The English forward was a notable absentee from the Red Devils’ starting lineup on Saturday evening having been replaced on the wing by Alejandro Garnacho. 

The 26-year-old eventually came on for summer signing Joshua Zirkzee on the hour mark.

Rashford has scored three times in United’s last two games against Southampton and Barnsley, rediscovering some of the form that saw him fire 30 goals in Ten Hag’s first season at Old Trafford. 

But he will was forced to settle for a half hour off the bench after Ten Hag made what he described as ‘not a difficult decision’ to drop the star.

Ten Hag made what he described as ‘not a difficult decision’ to drop the star

The forward scored twice in United’s 7-0 Carabao Cup thrashing of Barnsley on Tuesday

The Dutchman explained: ‘It was not difficult because we need to rotate.

‘Because we have many games to cover and we have to give Alejandro games – and as we have all seen, he has such a lot of end product, scored so many goals, so many assists, but often as a sub. 

‘Also needs starts – he’s had just one start this season.’

Garnacho formed a pacey front three with Joshua Zirkzee and Amad Diallo at Selhurst Park, though United were unable to secure the win needed to move into seventh, instead being held to a 0-0 draw by the Eagles.

Ten Hag added: ‘We have [depth], but they are not up to full speed. 

‘They need now games and to get into match rhythm, so they’re definitely not ready for 90 minutes but it’s a pleasure to have them in the squad and will be beneficial.

‘If we integrate everyone, like Manuel Ugarte – he needs some time – Rasmus Hojlund hasn’t had pre-season, Mason Mount back – yeah it’s a good sign and we need this because have to cover so many games.’

The surprise snubbing of Rashford comes after Ten Hag has warned that he must maintain the right lifestyle if he wants to get back to his best for United.

The surprise snubbing of Rashford comes after Ten Hag has warned that he must maintain the right lifestyle if he wants to get back to his best for United 

Ahead of Saturday’s clash, Ten Hag was asked if Rashford has learned from his mistakes last year. He replied: ‘I think he always knew, and every player knows’

Rashford missed training following a 12-hour tequila bender in Belfast and going nightclubbing after United lost the Manchester derby in October 2023

The 26-year-old’s performances dipped alarmingly last term after signing a new £300,00-a-week contract, and he was disciplined by his manager for missing training following a 12-hour tequila bender in Belfast and going nightclubbing after United lost the Manchester derby in October. 

Ahead of Saturday’s clash, Ten Hag was asked if Rashford has learned from the experience.

He replied: ‘I think he always knew, and every player knows, because when your lifestyle is not right you can’t perform.

‘You don’t get the right levels when you don’t have a good and disciplined life away from Carrington.’