Marcus Rashford's future at Manchester United looked to be hanging in the balance last season.
With his confidence shot, Rashford lost his place in the United squad and looked to be heading towards the Old Trafford exit door after being left out for the Manchester derby. He would end the season with just four league goals to his name.
Rashford was eventually convinced to stay at Old Trafford when he heard the news that the club was appointing Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman's ability to get the best out of younger talent appealed to the forward and his decision seems to have been justified.
ALSO READ: Ten Hag reveals what he told Rashford on day one
In just six Premier League appearances, Rashford has scored three goals and has been embracing his new role in the number nine position. For Rashford, his improved spell at United will be all the sweeter considering the comments Jose Mourinho made about the striker back in 2019.
When asked if Rashford could play as a centre-forward, Mourinho responded: "I am not going to say he cannot ever be a number nine, he can be a dangerous number nine especially if the opposition is not pragmatic, is not close and is giving spaces to attack. He can be dangerous in transitions.
"But when Manchester United is a team that normally plays against teams who go to Old Trafford, close the door, bring the bus, bring the double bus, he is not a striker to play with his back to the goal. He is not the target man, he doesn’t score as many goals as a striker should do.
"So I think from the side you will get him to numbers of 10-12 goals per season. He is very professional, he works for the team, he understands what you tell him to do from the defensive point of view.
"Playing from the sides he can be a very good player, probably better than at nine. But he feels he is a number nine and I think the club and the manager feel he is."
Rashford's Premier League player of the month accolade is testament to how well he has adapted to the number nine role despite Mourinho's reservations. Only time will tell if he is able to keep this sort of form going.
READ NEXT:
