Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag addressed the controversy surrounding Marcus Rashford's absence from the FA Cup tie against Newport, declaring the matter "case closed."
Ten Hag asserted that Rashford was out due to illness on Friday, despite reports suggesting the player had been at a Belfast nightclub on Thursday before missing training the next day.
"He reported ill," Ten Hag stated after United's 4-2 victory against Newport, adding, "The rest is an internal matter. I deal with it; we will deal with it." Rashford's on-field performance has been accompanied by off-field criticism, particularly for attending a nightclub party after a derby defeat in October.
Ten Hag, who had earlier labelled Rashford's decision as "unacceptable," acknowledged encountering disciplinary issues since his tenure at Old Trafford began. Jadon Sancho was sent back to Borussia Dortmund on loan after falling out with Ten Hag earlier this month.
Despite Rashford's occasional off-field incidents, Ten Hag emphasised that the player has taken responsibility, deeming it an "internal matter" and stating, "Case closed."
Stressing the importance of discipline both on and off the pitch, Ten Hag noted, "In football, you need discipline, and that is on the pitch but also off the pitch because there is a line between. Every player knows this; every professional knows this; what is required."
Looking ahead to the match against Wolves, Ten Hag highlighted Rashford's recent contributions, stating, "He has taken responsibility, and for the rest, it's an internal matter—case closed." Despite the controversies, Ten Hag emphasised the developing connection between Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund, expressing a desire to continue the positive progress.
In terms of the upcoming match against Wolves, United goalkeeper Andre Onana is expected to return to the starting lineup following Cameroon's exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
