Erik Ten Hag says Rashford needs discipline after FA Cup absence

The fallout from Marcus Rashford’s decision to skip training after going to a Belfast nightclub continues to rumble on this week. The 26-year-old winger missed Manchester United’s FA Cup match against Newport County on Monday after missing training earlier in the week.

The official reason for Rashford’s absence was an illness, but he was spotted in a Belfast nightclub the night before he skipped training.

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag was initially coy and unwilling to talk about Rashford on Monday, citing “an inter matter.” The Dutchman has now blown the lid on the issue, saying that Rashford needs to be more disciplined.

Football requires discipline “on and off the pitch” says Ten Hag

Ten Hag managed to avoid questions about Rashford on Monday, but with stories of the wingers’ “12-hour tequila bender” dominating headlines, the Dutch manager had to give some clarity into what’s going on behind the scenes with Rashford during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday.

“In football, you need discipline and that's on the pitch but also off the pitch,” Ten Hag explained about his decision to bench Rashford against Newport County.

“There is a line and every player, every professional knows this. They know what is required. We have to focus on winning football games and that's well that matters and every top professional knows what is required.”

Rashford issue “closed”

As bad as Rashford’s decision was, it’s apparently already been forgotten by his Manchester United boss.

“[Rashford] has taken responsibility and for the rest it's an internal matter, case closed," Ten Hag told reporters on Wednesday.

When pressed further about whether Rashford’s actions disrespected Ten Had and Manchester United Football Club, the former Ajax manager pushed back, saying “It's nothing to do with that. As I said, ‘case closed’.”

Rashford will be available for selection against Wolves on Friday.

What’s next for Marcus Rashford?

Erik Ten Hag ended his comments about Rashford on Wednesday with a promising note about the winger and his starting striker Rasmus Højlund.

“There is a developing, strong bond between Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Højlund and we want to continue that process," Ten Hag said.

According to the latest Manchester United transfer rumours though, Rashford might not be around much longer. He has long been wanted by French side PSG. A move to Newcastle or Saudi Arabia may also be on the cards this summer.