Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag gives blunt response for Marcus Rashford absence against Newport

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has explained why forward Marcus Rashford is not part of his side's squad for their FA Cup clash at Newport County.

The Three Lions international is said to be 'ill' and has remained at Carrington instead of travelling with the squad to south Wales.

Rashford was pictured in a night club in Northern Ireland on both Wednesday and Thursday evening this week, with unconfirmed speculation emerging that he has once again broken the club's disciplinary rules.

“Marcus Rashford absence? It’s an internal matter," the former Ajax boss told BBC Sport.

“I will deal with it”, he added.

Ten Hag has been caught up in controversy ever since his arrival at Old Trafford, with several high-profile players breaching his rules.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho are just two previous examples as questions over the culture at the club continue to circle.

Ronaldo was released from his contract back in January 2023 after an interview with Piers Morgan was televised.

Current winger Sancho is now on loan with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund and continues to be caught in a rift with Ten Hag over issues surrounding his levels in training.

Rashford has struggled for form this season (Image: Getty)

Rashford recently signed a bumper deal at Old Trafford in 2023 and was United's top scorer in all competitions last season with 30.

He had since failed to reach the heights of last season and continues to split opinion over his form in the side.

Ten Hag has previously stated he has full faith in the Red Devils no.10.

"I think he's not happy, we are not happy. We have expectations, he has high expectations of himself," Ten Hag said about Rashford's start to this season.

"At this moment, he is not in his best form. But I know he will be back. I know when the team is playing better, he will play better, he will score goals. I am confident of that.

"This season he will improve and score goals, he's totally in the team and aware on everything. He will be back on track.