Marcus Rashford’s inclusion in England Euro 2024 squad in doubt

Marcus Rashford’s inclusion in England’s Euro 2024 squad is in doubt after failing to make a significant impact during the March international friendlies.

Rashford played just 15 minutes of England’s recent friendly against Brazil, and was then unable to earn any minutes when the team faced Belgium a few days later. Despite the Three Lions trailing the game for a long period, Anthony Gordon, James Maddison and Ollie Watkins were sent on instead of Rashford.

He came into the England camp off the back of three goals in three games, but failed to make an impression against Brazil, during which he completely missed the ball when presented with a headed chance.

The team were without Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka during the March friendlies, yet it seems the 26-year-old was unable to impress Southgate, who will soon need to select his final squad for Euro 2024.

According to the Telegraph, due to Rashford’s failure to perform, there is now possibility that Rashford will not be selected by Southgate for the Euros this summer.

When asked if Rashford had been carrying a knock, the England boss was quick to deny, while also avoiding the opportunity to offer any encouragement to the player.

Southgate said: “Well, I wanted to see Anthony Gordon. I think he’s been excellent for his club. And obviously Marcus got on in the first game. But I wanted to see Gordon again [against Belgium]. I thought Maddison coming on would have an impact and [Jarrod] Bowen has also had a really good camp. There is competition for places.”

After a career best 2022/23 campaign, Rashford has largely struggled for form throughout the 2023/24 season, leading to him falling down the pecking order at international level.