Marcus Rashford was England’s only bright light as dim victory against Slovenia offers little hope
Danny Higginbotham is full of praise for the Manchester United teenager for creating space and inspiration when few others could as the Three Lions sealed qualification
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MARCUS RASHFORD was the only bright spark for England at Wembley during a fairly dismal showing against Slovenia.
Yes, they are through to the World Cup finals in Russia thanks to Harry Kane’s late winner.
But there wasn’t much to raise expectations for next summer other than the performance of Rashford.
The Manchester United forward played wide left in England’s 4-2-3-1 and was a threat, especially in the first half.
The 19-year-old’s movement, trickery and willingness to take on his man were all excellent. He is so direct he scares defenders.
But what also makes him dangerous is he can cut in on to his stronger right foot and end up in the striker’s position. He can then interchange with Kane.
This also creates space for his full-back to run past him and get crosses in.
But he also creates space for the midfielders because when he gets the ball, opposition defenders drop. This opens the pitch up for Rashford’s team-mates.
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His only blemish was his attempted chip in the second half when clean through on goal.
It was easily cleared away and he should have just hit his shot.
Other than that, he could be one of the few England players to be content with his performance.
