Marcus Rashford was a standout performer for Manchester United vs Everton and his substitution ended up being a turning point.
Despite not scoring or assisting, Marcus Rashford has made a very impactful return to Manchester United this season.
Last week, Rashford starred against Ipswich Town and he was arguably United’s biggest attacking threat in the 2-2 draw against Everton, too.
Michael Carrick decided in the 70th-minute to replace Rashford with Patrick Dorgu, and United’s attacking output immediately dwindled.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
United’s match stats against Everton prove that the attack struggled after Rashford left, with only three shots taken after he was replaced. One of those was Benjamin Sesko’s headed goal.
Speaking after the match, Carrick explained why Rashford was taken off the pitch, and it turns out it was a decision taken out of his hands.
Carrick explained that Rashford was “feeling a bit of something” in the minutes leading up to his substitution.
To avoid the risk of injury, Rashford was taken off. Had it not been for that knock, the 28-year-old may have stayed on the pitch to push for more goals.
Carrick clearly decided to take off Rashford to steer clear of a major injury, and that is a wise decision when assessing United’s schedule.
Following the trip to Merseyside, United can now begin preparing for their return to the 2026/27 Champions League.
United face Sabah at Old Trafford on Thursday evening in the first of their eight Champions League group phase fixtures.
Just three days later, United host Manchester City in the derby, and Rashford will be in line to feature, potentially in both of those matches.
