Manchester United head into the international break in third place in the Premier League table and the next few months could be critical
Marcus Rashford has been used sparingly by Barcelona of late(Image: James Marsh/Shutterstock)
As Manchester United brace themselves for a few weeks off, there are plenty of eyes on their potential summer plans. Aside from the managerial situation – which will be resolved one way or another at the end of the season – there has been another run-out for Marcus Rashford as he continues to knock on the door at Barcelona.
United themselves don’t have another match to play until Leeds come to Old Trafford on April 13. By the time that match kicks off, more than three weeks will have passed without a competitive fixture for Michael Carrick’s side.
The international break will offer a chance for those not away with their national sides to refresh and recharge. It will also allow Carrick and his coaching staff to reflect on Friday’s 2-2 draw at Bournemouth and prepare for the run-in.
A top-four finish and a spot in next season’s Champions League would no doubt strengthen Carrick’s case to take over as manager permanently. That’s one area of concern as we bring you the latest lines from around Old Trafford.
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Carrick question
Former Premier League manager Tim Sherwood has wondered if Michael Carrick would definitely accept the Manchester United job if offered it. A return of 23 points from a possible 30 makes him a more than viable candidate but things would need to work for both teams.
“No one’s asked Michael, he might say ‘I don’t want it’,” Sherwood said during an appearance on No Tippy Tappy Football alongside Sam Allardyce. “I can’t imagine he would, but you just never know.” Carrick was asked about taking the job permanently when he spoke to BBC Sport in February. “For me, it’s the ultimate role,” he said.
He added: “I don’t decide how long that’s going to be, but I love being here, and while I’m here, I’ll give everything I can. And I always plan for the long-term future for the benefit of the football club. That’s how I believe it should be.”
More Rashford minutes
Marcus Rashford was given just eight minutes from the bench as Barcelona beat Rayo Vallecano on Sunday. Ronald Araujo’s first-half goal was enough for victory, a fifth straight win in the league.
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Rashford has been used sparingly of late, with Barca boss Hansi Flick saying the England international was back to 100 per cent after recent “issues”. Flick indicated he will need to use his whole squad during a busy conclusion to the campaign and the forward showed he was ready to play when called upon.
“There’s time [to make decisions],” the manager said. “There’s the World Cup. I believe in my players. Cancelo, Rashford, Gerard… they give us quality. And the rest do too. We’ll talk at the end and see what happens.”
Barcelona will take on Atletico Madrid on their return to La Liga action after the break. That encounter will be swiftly followed by two more games against Atleti in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
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