Manchester United dealt Marcus Rashford injury concern ahead of Newcastle United clash

Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has been forced to withdraw from the England squad after picking up an injury during Sunday’s 3-1 FA Cup quarter-final win over Fulham.

Rashford was hurt in the build-up to Aleksander Mitrovic’s 50th-minute opener at Old Trafford. After receiving physio treatment, he carried on and helped the Red Devils overcome their visitors, who were reduced to nine-man following red cards to Mitrovic and Willian. Bruno Fernandes scored twice, with Marcel Sabitzer also on the scoresheet.

The 25-year-old will miss the Three Lions’ Euro 2024 qualifiers against Italy and Ukraine. Nick Pope’s withdrawal has also been confirmed after the Newcastle United goalkeeper played through the 2-1 win at Nottingham Forest on Friday with an unspecified injury.

Erik ten Hag’s side face the Magpies at St James’ Park in the first game after the two-week international break on Sunday, April 2. Pope is expected to feature, but the visitors could be left sweating over Rashford’s fitness.

Rashford is Man United’s top scorer this campaign and recently netted his 30th goal for club and country in the 1-0 Europa League second-leg victory against Real Betis.

The doubt surrounding Rashford brings a touch of deja vu. Ahead of last month’s Carabao Cup final, there were fears the forward would miss out, however, he started and scored the second in the 2-0 win for ten Hag’s side. Newcastle are eyeing revenge in the league. A win would bring them level on points with the Red Devils.

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