Newcastle United take on Manchester United on Sunday, and it appears that Marcus Rashford has had a slight distraction ahead of the game.
Rashford looks set to be fit to face Newcastle after pulling out of the recent England squad due to injury. He spent the international break in New York, which certainly rattled a few cages.
The Man United forward is now back in training, and will be part of Erik ten Hag’s side that take on the Magpies at St James’ Park. It is a huge game which could have a major impact on the race to qualify for the Champions League. It also gives Newcastle the chance to get some revenge for the Carabao Cup final defeat back in February.
Stopping Rashford will be key to getting a result, but the 25-year-old has had something else on his mind in the buildup to this weekend’s fixture.
Marcus Rashford not happy with media claim
While he enjoys the best season of his career at Old Trafford, Rashford is also involved in discussions over a new contract. His current deal expires in 2024.
Talks are ongoing, and the Daily Star believe he has some outlandish demands. They report that Rashford wants to earn more than £500,000-a-week to stay at Manchester United, adding that he wishes to be rewarded for his incredible efforts this season.
He has since taken issue with the story, and responded to it on Twitter.
He wrote: “Just before this one starts to do the rounds! It’s complete nonsense. The club and myself have been respectful to one another, and that’s how it will remain. My focus is purely on finishing as well as possible in the league and winning trophies.”
No distractions at Newcastle
While Rashford is having to dispute stories in the media about his future, there is no such drama at Newcastle United. All the focus is on this weekend’s game – and what a game it should be.
It could be a defining weekend in the race for the top four, especially if the Magpies can push themselves back into third. For that to happen, we need to beat Man United and hope Spurs don’t win away to Everton.
Newcastle have momentum going into the game, while the only major injury concern appears to be Miguel Almiron. Sven Botman has recovered from a virus, while it has also been claimed that Anthony Gordon could play a part.
Rashford will certainly be involved for the opposition, but perhaps the distraction of this media story could give Newcastle the slightest edge on Sunday – but that is pure hope rather than expectation.
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