The arrival of Romelu Lukaku at Manchester United will have an impact on Marcus Rashford’s role next season.Just like how Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s presence forced Rashford out onto the wing, it’s hard to see Rashford playing down the middle with the Belgian now in the side.The 19-year-old shouldn’t have a problem finding game time. He made 32 appearances in the Premier League last season and played in the Europa League final win over Ajax.But Jose Mourinho didn’t sign Lukaku for him not to play.Mourinho’s side are currently in Los Angeles for a pre-season tour. They take on LA Galaxy and Real Salt Lake before the true challenges begin; Manchester City, Real Madrid then Barcelona.It’s an opportunity for Rashford to stake a claim in the starting line-up next season, and one that he’s clearly ready to capitalise on based on a recent image of the striker.Rashford posted photos of himself during a training session on Twitter and it’s been clear that he’s spent the past few weeks in the gym.
Rashford's been working out
Check out the photos below.
And here’s how excited Man United fans reacted on Twitter.
Mourinho: I can trust Rashford
It was Rashford’s goal that gave the Red Devils a 1-0 win in their Europa League semi-final first leg win over Celta Vigo and it led to Mourinho admitted he can “trust” the youngster.
“Marcus I trust and it doesn't matter if he scores or if he doesn't score. He is fantastic in his effort and his attitude,” Mourinho said, per the Daily Mail.
“His qualities are fantastic but he was not scoring a goal since September. But his mentality even when he doesn't get us goals.
“I kept confidence always in him and it looks like some other players don't realise what makes me trust a player.”
Competition at Man United
Competition for places at Man United is hotting up. Lukaku is certain to be the club’s No.9 but beside him, there are a string of players vying for positions.
Rashford, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard are all in the race. And Ivan Perisic will join the quartet if Jose Mourinho signs the Inter Milan winger.
Man United have been heavily linked with the Croatian. According to Sky Sports, Perisic wants to join the Red Devils but an agreement is still to be reached between the clubs, with Inter holding out for £48 million.
