Erik ten Hag has backed Marcus Rashford to still make England's World Cup squad despite injury forcing him out of these internationals.
Rashford picked up a muscle injury after scoring twice in United's 3-1 win against Arsenal 10 days ago and, having missed the Europa League opener against Real Sociedad, he isn't in the squad to face Sheriff Tiraspol in Moldova either. Ten Hag doesn't expect Rashford to be absent for long and United aren't in action again until the Manchester derby at the Etihad on Sunday, October 2.
"He’s not available, a consequence after Arsenal. He has a muscle injury," said the United boss.
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"I don’t think too long, but I don't know. It’s not really bad, we expect him quite soon to be back in the team."
Rashford was in contention for an England recall having not been in a Three Lions squad since missing his penalty in the European Championship final against Italy in July last year.
He's scored three goals in his last four games for United and has been revitalised under Ten Hag, but his absence from England's final squad before the World Cup could put pay to his chances of making Gareth Southgate's 26-man squad for Qatar in November and December.
But Ten Hag believes it is "obvious" Rashford should still go to the World Cup and praised the academy graduate for his return to form this season.
"That’s quite obvious and quite clear, yes [he should go to the World Cup]. He played really good seasons and I think in this season he had a great comeback and showed his great potential and quality," he said.
With Rashford and Anthony Martial out, Cristiano Ronaldo will almost certainly lead the line, although Ten Hag refused to give the Moldovans fans what they wanted the day before the game.
"I’m sorry, but the Moldova fans have to wait until tomorrow," he said.
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